I really can't understand uncertainty

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

The discussion centers on the concept of uncertainty in mathematical operations, specifically how to handle expressions involving uncertainty. A participant seeks clarification on the calculation of the expression 4±0.5 x 5.2±0.2 and its equivalence to 4x5.2 ± 0.5 x 0.2. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the propagation of uncertainty in calculations, which is crucial for accurate results in scientific and engineering contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of arithmetic operations
  • Familiarity with the concept of uncertainty in measurements
  • Knowledge of error propagation techniques
  • Experience with scientific notation and significant figures
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of error propagation in calculations
  • Learn about the rules for combining uncertainties in addition and multiplication
  • Explore resources on significant figures and their importance in scientific calculations
  • Review examples of uncertainty in real-world applications, such as physics and engineering
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, educators, and professionals in fields such as mathematics, physics, and engineering who seek to deepen their understanding of uncertainty and its implications in calculations.

Shing
Messages
141
Reaction score
1
I really can't understand "uncertainty"

Hi guys,
I really can't understand "uncertainty"...
How it works, and Why it works
I don't understand..
Like why:
4+/-0.5 x 5.2+/- 0.2
=4x5.2 +/- 0.5 x 0.2?

Would anyone be kind enough to elaborate a bit for me?
Thanks for reading
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org


Shing said:
Hi guys,
I really can't understand "uncertainty"...
How it works, and Why it works
I don't understand..
Like why:
4+/-0.5 x 5.2+/- 0.2
=4x5.2 +/- 0.5 x 0.2?

Would anyone be kind enough to elaborate a bit for me?
Thanks for reading

Why moved it here?
It is not homework, not coursework either That was just an example...
If any naive post will be moved, then who will ask questions here?
 

Similar threads

Understanding the Proper Uncertainty Formula to Use
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Is my textbook wrong about absolute uncertainties?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Calculating Uncertainty when Converting Time
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Calculating Uncertainty: Where Am I Going Wrong?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Error propagation leads to different uncertainties, which do I choose?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle Question
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
What is the area, and approximate uncertainty in a circle....
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
8K
Ruler measurements and knowing how many decimal places to include
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Understanding Uncertainties: Explaining Common Questions and Misconceptions
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Undergrad Measurement for uncertainty in nonlinear model
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K