Types of errors Flashcards
Measurement error
The difference between a measured value and the true value.
Anomalies
These values are in a set of results which are judged not to be part of the variation caused by random uncertainty.
Random error
Present when any measurement is made and cannot be corrected. The effect can be reduced by making more measurements and calculating a new mean.
Systematic error
Causes the reading to differ from the true value, by the consistent amount each time. It can not be dealt with by single repeats.
If systematic error is suspected…
the experiment should be repeated using a different method or different set of equipment.
Zero error
An indication that a measuring system gives a false reading. This results in systematic uncertainty.