Can anyone tell me how I can calculate uncertainty?

  • Thread starter Thread starter repugno
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Uncertainty
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The calculation of uncertainty in measurements is defined as half the resolution of the measuring tool used. In the case of a ruler with a smallest marking of 1mm, the resolution is 1mm, leading to an uncertainty of ±0.5mm. This principle applies universally across various measuring instruments, ensuring that measurements account for potential errors inherent in the tools.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of measurement tools and their resolutions
  • Basic knowledge of statistical concepts related to uncertainty
  • Familiarity with precision and accuracy in measurements
  • Ability to interpret measurement data
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of measurement resolution in various tools
  • Learn about statistical methods for calculating uncertainty
  • Explore the differences between precision and accuracy in measurements
  • Study examples of uncertainty calculations in scientific experiments
USEFUL FOR

Students, scientists, engineers, and anyone involved in fields requiring precise measurements and an understanding of uncertainty in data collection.

repugno
Messages
78
Reaction score
0
Can anyone tell me how I can calculate uncertainty? Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I'm afraid you're going to need to be more specific in what you mean.

cookiemonster
 
Sorry about that, when we make a measurement there is an uncertainty which can be calculated. My textbook says it is +- half the resolution. But that doesn't make it clear to me exactly how to calculate it. I'm quite confused.
 
Say you have a ruler, and the smallest markings on the meter measure millimeters. Then the resolution of the ruler is 1mm, and you can only make measurements within .5mm. Thus, your uncertainty is .5mm.

cookiemonster
 

Similar threads

How can I calculate the uncertainty of the mean with Gaussian error propagation?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
1K
Understanding the Proper Uncertainty Formula to Use
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Uncertainty: Systematic & Random
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Uncertainty of pendulum period and pendulum length
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
Is my textbook wrong about absolute uncertainties?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
How do I calculate Heisenburg's Uncertainty Principle?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
Derivation of uncertainty formula
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
I'm getting two possible uncertainties for frequency
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Calculating Numerical Uncertainties in an Equation
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
Propagating Uncertainties in acceleration when using a video software
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K