How to calculate uncertainty in measurements

repugno · May 16, 2004

Can anyone tell me how I can calculate uncertainty? Thank you

cookiemonster · May 16, 2004

I'm afraid you're going to need to be more specific in what you mean.

cookiemonster

repugno · May 16, 2004

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.

cookiemonster · May 16, 2004

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

How to calculate uncertainty in measurements

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