Answer: Calculating Relative & Absolute Uncertainty of R^-2

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of absolute uncertainty and the question of calculating the absolute uncertainty in a measurement of distance, given a value of 4.000±0.002m. The answer to the question is not explicitly given, but it is suggested that the absolute uncertainty is 0.002m, which can be calculated by dividing the absolute uncertainty by the average. The poster is unsure if this is correct and is looking for clarification on the concept of absolute uncertainty.
  • #1
gcsm
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Absolute Uncertanity

Homework Statement


A distance R is measured to be 4.000±0.002 m
What is the absolute uncertainty in R to the power of negative two?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



4^-2 = 0.00625
0.002^-2 = 250000

Im stuck at this question I have no idea where to go, any help would be appreciated!
 
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  • #2
umm you already gave the absolute uncertainty, it is 0,002m...
 
  • #3
but I tried that, meaning 0.002 and that's not it, I also tried 250000 (using SI) and that isn't correct either...not really sure where to go...
 
  • #4
Are you looking for the absolute or relative uncertainty? as in the thread title you say relative, but then in the problem description you say absolute.

The absolute is 0.002m that is 100%, then most probably you are looking for the relative uncertainty.
That is divide the absolute by the average.
 
  • #5
sorry for the confusion, the question is as follows:
What is the absolute uncertainty in R to the power of negative two?

but wouldn't you have to do something to the +-0.002m?
 

FAQ: Answer: Calculating Relative & Absolute Uncertainty of R^-2

What is relative uncertainty?

Relative uncertainty is a measure of the amount of error or uncertainty in a measurement, expressed as a percentage of the actual value.

How do you calculate relative uncertainty?

Relative uncertainty is calculated by dividing the absolute uncertainty by the measured value and multiplying by 100. The formula is (absolute uncertainty/measured value) x 100.

What is absolute uncertainty?

Absolute uncertainty is the actual amount of uncertainty or error in a measurement. It is typically expressed in the same units as the measurement itself.

How do you calculate absolute uncertainty?

Absolute uncertainty is typically calculated by taking the difference between the highest and lowest possible values of a measurement and dividing by two. This gives a range of values within which the actual measurement is likely to fall.

Why is it important to calculate relative and absolute uncertainty?

Calculating uncertainty allows scientists to understand the limitations of their measurements and the accuracy of their data. This information is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions and making accurate predictions based on scientific data.

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