Exploring Relative and Percent Error Calculations

What is one reason why measurement errors might occur?

• Using a new measuring tape

• Using a digital measuring tool

• Reading the measuring tape incorrectly

• Measuring in centimeters instead of inches

Why is it not sufficient to just say 'we're off by one inch'?

• Because one inch is too large to be accurate

• Because one inch is always a significant error

• Because one inch can vary in significance depending on the size of the object

• Because one inch is too small to matter

What does the relative error formula compare?

• The measured value with the total measurement

• The measured value with the estimated value

• The amount of error with the total measurement

• The actual value with the estimated value

What is the first step in calculating relative error?

• Multiply the actual value by the measured value

• Divide the actual value by the measured value

• Subtract the actual value from the measured value

• Add the actual value to the measured value

In the first example, what was the measured circumference of the circle?

• 21 inches

• 20 inches

• 22 inches

• 23 inches

What was the actual circumference of the circle in the first example?

• 23 inches

• 22 inches

• 20 inches

• 21 inches

How do you convert relative error to percent error?

• Move the decimal point two places to the right

• Multiply by 100

• Move the decimal point two places to the left

• Divide by 100

In the second example, what was the actual perimeter of the garden?

• 34.25 feet

• 38 feet

• 40 feet

• 35 feet

What was the measured perimeter of the garden in the second example?

• 35 feet

• 40 feet

• 38 feet

• 34.25 feet

What was the percent error in the second example?

• 4.76%

• 9.87%

• 10%

• 5%