Practical Skills Flashcards
Systematic error
a constant error that is added to every reading. Subtracting error from each reading gets rid of error
zero error
a measuring system gives a false reading when the true value is measured as 0. Results in systematic uncertainity
evidence
data that has been shown to be valid
fair test
only independant varaible has been allowed to affect dependant variable
hypothesis
a proposal intended to explain certain facts/observations (WHY prediction happens)
interval
the quantity between readings
Precision
How much spread the results have about the mean value. Dpends only on extent on random errors –> no indication of how close to true value
resolution
smallest change that can be measured
prediction
a statement suggesting what will happen in the furutre based on observation, experience, or hypothesis
Range
max and min values of DV and IV. Important in insuring any pattern in deteced e.g. from 10 to 50 cm
anomalies
Values in a set of results which are judged to not be a part of the variation caused by random uncertainity
accuracy
How close to the true value a mesaurement in judged to be
random error
Cause reading to be spread about true value due to results varying from an unpredictable way from one measurement to the next. Cannot be correct and are present when any measurement is made
calibration
Making a scale on a measuring instrument. This involves establishing the relationship between indications on a measuring instrument and standard or reference quanitiy values, which must be applied
measurement error
the difference between a measured value and a true value
data
quantative or qualatiative information that has been collected
