Cosmological data margins of error

In summary, the conversation is about creating a database of cosmological objects and determining the percentage error in the data for the diameter and mass of the sun, as well as its orbital period. The speaker mentions the difficulty in obtaining accurate measurements for the sun due to its lack of a solid surface and the correlation between the uncertainties in the mass of other astronomical objects. They also suggest checking publications for uncertainties.
  • #1
Clever Penguin
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I am currently creating a database of all the known cosmological objects, and need to know the percentage error in the following data:

Diameter of the sun: 1.3914x108 metres

Mass of sun: 1.989x1030 kilograms

I have the orbital period of the sun to be: 2.75x107± 9.1% years
 
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  • #2
Clever Penguin said:
I am currently creating a database of all the known cosmological objects
So you are at star number 1 of more than a billion?

Check the publications for uncertainties. For the sun, the definition of "radius" itself is challenging, as it does not have a solid surface.
The relative uncertainty on the mass of sun is dominated by the uncertainty on the gravitational constant, and highly correlated with the uncertainty on the mass of all other astronomical objects.
 
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FAQ: Cosmological data margins of error

1. What is the significance of cosmological data margins of error?

Cosmological data margins of error refer to the range of uncertainty in the measured values of various observable parameters in the universe. These errors are crucial in understanding the accuracy and reliability of cosmological data and help scientists make more informed conclusions about the nature of the universe.

2. How are cosmological data margins of error determined?

Cosmological data margins of error are determined through statistical analysis and mathematical modeling. Scientists use various techniques, such as Bayesian statistics and Monte Carlo simulations, to calculate the range of uncertainty in the measured values of cosmological parameters.

3. Why do cosmological data margins of error vary for different parameters?

Different parameters in cosmological data have varying margins of error because they are measured using different observational methods and instruments. Some parameters may have more accurate measurements due to better technology and data collection methods, while others may have larger margins of error due to limitations in data collection or analysis.

4. How do cosmological data margins of error impact scientific conclusions?

Cosmological data margins of error are crucial in determining the level of confidence in scientific conclusions. The smaller the margins of error, the more confident scientists can be in their conclusions. However, larger margins of error can lead to more uncertainty and may require further research and analysis to reach more definitive conclusions.

5. Can cosmological data margins of error be reduced?

Yes, cosmological data margins of error can be reduced through advancements in technology, data collection methods, and statistical techniques. As scientists continue to improve their methods and technology, we can expect to see smaller margins of error in cosmological data, leading to more precise and accurate conclusions about the nature of the universe.

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