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:Â
- 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!
