Chapter 3: Measurement Errors and Uncertainties
Abstract: "Measurement errors" refer to the difference between a measured value and the true value of a quantity being measured, while "measurement uncertainties" represent the degree of doubt or range within which the true value is likely to lie, essentially describing the reliability of a measurement result, not just the deviation from the true value; both are important aspects of considering the quality of a measurement in scientific experiments or engineering applications. Key points to remember: Error vs. Uncertainty: While "error" is simply the difference between the measured value and the true value, "uncertainty" is a statement about the possible range within which the true value could fall, considering factors like instrument limitations, random fluctuations, and systematic biases. Types of Errors: Systematic Errors: Consistent errors that occur in the same direction with each measurement, often due to instrument calibratio...