Accuracy and sensitivity

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinctions between accuracy, precision, and sensitivity in experimental apparatus. Accuracy refers to the closeness of a measured value to the true value, while precision indicates the repeatability of measurements. Sensitivity is defined as the ability to detect small changes in the observed event, often expressed as the output signal relative to the input signal. The conversation emphasizes that accuracy is constrained by the sensitivity of the measuring device, highlighting the importance of understanding these terms in experimental contexts.

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Hi,

What exactly is the difference between accuracy and sensitivity as regards experimental apparatus?

Thanks. :smile:
 
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Usually people use the term precision, not sensitivity, but the difference is that precision means always getting the same results (repeatable, reliable), while accuracy means always getting the correct results. The dartboard analogy is the usual way to visualize it:

http://honolulu.hawaii.edu/distance/sci122/SciLab/L5/accprec.html
 
"Sensitivity" can be seen as an ability to differentiate fluctuations in a given observed or tested event. "Accuracy" can be seen as the tolerance limits placed on "sensitivity"
 
russ_watters said:
Usually people use the term precision, not sensitivity, but the difference is that precision means always getting the same results (repeatable, reliable), while accuracy means always getting the correct results.

That sounds like repeatability. I know of the following expressions:
resolution - the minimum change the device will show
repeatability - as russ_watters said, the difference between two measurements of the same value
accuracy - the difference between the measured value and the real value

add: sensitivity - output signal times input signal, eg V/m when you measure length and the device gives you voltage.
 
Last edited:

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