Measurement Errors

What are Measurement Errors?

There are varying degrees of instrument error and measurement uncertainty when measuring. Every time a measurement is repeated, a slightly different result will be obtained. It is important you understand the following calculations: 

• Precision: the smallest unit on measuring instrument or limit of reading
• Absolute error: measured value – actual value or 1/2 x precision
• Upper bound: measurement + absolute error
• Lower bound: measurement – absolute error
• Relative error: absolute error / measurement
• Percentage error: (absolute error / measurement) x 100

What are the Different Terms and How do We Solve Them?

The videos below explain the different definitions in more detail and how to find them when given a measurement.

Part 1:

Part 2:

How to Calculate Relative Error and Percentage Error

The following video explains how to calculate relative and percentage errors when given a measurement.

How to Further Calculate Different Measurement Errors

The following videos will demonstrate additional examples of these calculations.

Part 1:

Part 2:

 Want to learn more? Check out more of our Preliminary Standard Math resources here!