Relative/Absolute error woes

[dwdoyle8854]

Homework Statement

"Which will have a larger absolute measurement error, a larger object or a smaller object?"
"Which will have a larger relative measurement error, a larger object or a smaller object?"

Homework Equations

Relative error:
δ(A)/A = δ(B)/B + δ(C)/C

The Attempt at a Solution

Im trying to answer this for my lab report in physics, and I guess I am confused by the question.
Absolute error would be the same regardless of size because its just the amount you measuring tool might be off.
Relative error since it is a ratio correct? Or since relative error is δ(A)/A or absolute error over the measured/accepted quantity, would it be smaller for larger objects?

Confusion abound. Please help.

 

[tms]

Absolute error would be the same regardless of size because its just the amount you measuring tool might be off.

Possibly, but it would depend on what you are measuring and how you measure it, too.

Relative error since it is a ratio correct? Or since relative error is δ(A)/A or absolute error over the measured/accepted quantity, would it be smaller for larger objects?

Again, it will depend.