Calculating Percent Error When Accepted Value is 0

In summary, the issue is that when the accepted value in a percent error calculation is 0, the formula cannot be used as it involves dividing by 0, which is not possible. Therefore, there is no percent error in this situation.
  • #1
whale
6
0
how do you find the percent error when the accepted value is 0? you would be dividing by 0 and that just doesn't work
 
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  • #2
whale said:
how do you find the percent error when the accepted value is 0? you would be dividing by 0 and that just doesn't work


You have discovered the problem. There is no percent error.
 
  • #3
Could you explain yourself more clearly? What is it that you are trying to do?

Assaf
http://www.physicallyincorrect.com"
 
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  • #4
its ok, i have it under control. The problem was that the accepted value of soemthing was 0, and in the percent error formula, you divide by the accpted value. so when i tried to find the percent error, i would get a number divided by 0 and so it would just give me an error.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating percent error when the accepted value is 0?

The formula for calculating percent error when the accepted value is 0 is:
Percent Error = [(Experimental Value - 0)/0] x 100

2. Why is calculating percent error with an accepted value of 0 important?

Calculating percent error with an accepted value of 0 is important because it allows us to determine the accuracy of our experimental results when the expected or "true" value is known to be 0. This is particularly useful in experiments where the expected value is known to be 0, such as measuring the volume of an empty container.

3. What does a positive percent error mean when the accepted value is 0?

A positive percent error when the accepted value is 0 means that the experimental value is higher than the expected value. This could be due to errors in measurement, experimental design, or other factors. It is important to analyze the potential sources of error and make adjustments to improve the accuracy of future experiments.

4. Is it possible to have a negative percent error when the accepted value is 0?

No, it is not possible to have a negative percent error when the accepted value is 0. This is because the formula for calculating percent error involves dividing by the accepted value, which in this case is 0. Division by 0 is undefined, so a negative percent error cannot be calculated.

5. How can percent error be used to improve experimental results?

Percent error can be used to identify potential sources of error in an experiment and make adjustments to improve the accuracy of future results. By analyzing and understanding the percent error, scientists can identify areas of improvement in their experimental design, procedures, or measurement techniques. This can ultimately lead to more reliable and precise experimental results.

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