The purpose of calculating errors in an engineering lab is to determine the accuracy and precision of measurements and experimental results. This allows for the identification of potential sources of error and helps to improve the quality and reliability of the data.
The error in a measurement can be calculated by finding the difference between the measured value and the accepted value, and then dividing that difference by the accepted value. This value is then multiplied by 100 to get the percentage error.
Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the true or accepted value, while precision refers to how close multiple measurements of the same quantity are to each other. In other words, accuracy is a measure of correctness, while precision is a measure of consistency.
The uncertainty in a measurement can be determined by considering the precision of the measuring instrument and the limitations of the experimental setup. It is important to also take into account human error and any potential sources of systematic error.
No, it is impossible to completely eliminate errors in an engineering lab. However, by carefully considering and minimizing potential sources of error, and by properly calculating and analyzing errors, the accuracy and precision of measurements can be greatly improved.