How science works Flashcards
Accuracy
How close it is to the true value
Precision
When the repeated measurements are similar
Repeatability
A measurement is repeatable if the original experimenter repeats the investigation using same method and equipment and obtains the same results.
Reproducibility
A measurement is reproducible if the investigation is repeated by another person, or by using different equipment or techniques, and the same results are obtained.
Anomalies
Values in results that are not part of variation caused by random uncertainty
Random errors
These cause readings to be spread about the true value, due to results varying in an unpredictable way from one measurement to the next.
Zero error
Any indication that a measuring system gives a false reading when the true value of a measured quantity is zero, e.g. the needle on an ammeter failing to return to zero when no current flows.
Control variable
A control variable is one which may, in addition to the independent variable, affect the outcome of the investigation and therefore has to be kept constant or at least monitored
Independent variable
the variable for which values are changed or selected by the investigator
Dependent variable
the variable of which the value is measured for each and every change in the independent variable
Systematic error
Measurement error that is constant or follows a pattern
Uncertainty
The interval within which the true value can be expected to lie
Measurement error
The difference between a measured value and the true value
Random error
Measurement error due to unpredictable variation from one reading to the next
Fair test
Where the only thing affecting your dependent variable is your independent variable
