Working Scientifically

Question 1

Measurement error

Answer 1

The difference between a measured value and a true value

Question 2

Random error

Answer 2

When results vary in an unpredictable way from one measurement to the next, when a measuredment is made and cannot be corrected

Question 3

Systematic error

Answer 3

Results differ from the true value by a consistent amount each time a measurement is made

Question 4

Zero error

Answer 4

A false reading is given when a true value of a measured quantity is zero. For example an ammeter failing to return to zero when no current flows

Question 5

Control variable

Answer 5

The one that affects the outcome of the experiment and therefore has to be kept constant or monitered

Question 6

Dependant variable

Answer 6

The value is measured for each change in the independant variable

Question 7

Independant variable

Answer 7

Values are changed or selected by the investigator

Question 8

Reproducible results

Answer 8

A measurement is reproducible if another person can get the same results

Question 9

Calibration

Answer 9

Marking a scale on a measuring intrument, for example placing a thermometer in melting ice to see whether it reads zero, in order to check if it has been calibrated correctly