ScienceMeasurementUncertaintyandError.pptVIP

Science, Measurement, Uncertainty and Error Science, Measurements, Uncertainty and Error Measurement and Uncertainty Most experiments require scientists to make measurements. Measurements are rarely exactly the same. Measurements are always somewhat different from the “true value.” These deviations from the true value are called errors. Sources of Error Two sources of error in a measurement are limitations in the sensitivity of the instruments imperfections in experimental design or measurement techniques Errors are often classified as: Random Systematic Random Errors ALWAYS present. Measurements are often shown as: Measurement ± Random Error Sources: Operator errors Changes in experimental conditions How to minimize them? Take repeated measurements and calculate their average. Systematic Errors Are TYPICALLY present. Measurements are given as: Measurement + Systematic Error OR Measurement - Systematic Error Sources: Instrumental, physical and human limitations. Example: Device is out-of calibration. How to minimize them? Careful calibration. Best possible techniques. Precision and Accuracy in Measurements Precision How reproducible are measurements? Accuracy How close are the measurements to the true value. Dartboard analogy Imagine a person throwing darts, trying to hit the bulls-eye. ? Precision of a Measurement The last digit is an estimate. The precision is limited by the instrument. Scientific Data Dealing with Errors Identify the errors and their magnitude. Try to reduce the magnitude of the error. HOW? Better instruments Better experimental design Collect a lot of data Bad news… No matter how good you are… there will always be errors. The question is… How to deal with them? * Science, Measurement, Uncertainty and Error Science, Measurement, Uncertainty and Error t.nz Not accurate Not precise Accurate Not precise Not accurate Precise Accurate Precise Measurement ≈ 26.13 cm The precision and accuracy are