Is it possible to have a measurement with no uncertainty?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of measurement uncertainty in experimental physics, specifically addressing whether taking multiple identical measurements can eliminate uncertainty in the measurement of wavelength. Participants agree that systematic uncertainties, such as flaws in experimental design, persist regardless of the number of measurements taken. It is established that a single measurement inherently carries uncertainty, which must be accounted for even when multiple readings are averaged.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of measurement theory in physics
  • Familiarity with systematic and random uncertainties
  • Basic knowledge of experimental design principles
  • Concept of accuracy and precision in measurements
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of systematic uncertainties on experimental results
  • Learn about statistical methods for analyzing measurement data
  • Explore techniques for reducing measurement uncertainty
  • Study the principles of accuracy and precision in scientific measurements
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, researchers conducting experiments, and anyone interested in understanding measurement accuracy and uncertainty in scientific contexts.

wumple
Messages
57
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


If you were to measure ten identical measurements, would that imply that your measurement of the wavelength had no uncertainty? what would the uncertainty of the measurement be in that case?


Homework Equations



n/a

The Attempt at a Solution


I am thinking no because there would still be the presence of systematic uncertainties, ie flaws within the design of the experiment. But the problem seems to imply that there is a specific number, which is the part which I'm unsure of. Am I on the right track?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Any measuring device has a limited accuracy. Think about when you measure something with just one reading, what do you use for the uncertainty in those cases?
 

Similar threads

Error propagation leads to different uncertainties, which do I choose?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Uncertainty of measurements & significant figures
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
I'm getting two possible uncertainties for frequency
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Propagating Uncertainties in acceleration when using a video software
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
When Do I Use Reading Error in Measurement Uncertainty?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Experimenting whether the diameter of a pot affects boiling time for water
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
Undergrad What is the correct definition of measurement uncertainty?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
How Should Uncertainty Be Handled When Averaging Measurements?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
How to calculate the uncertainty for weight?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
Uncertainty For Multiple Measurements
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K