Percent Error Formula: Find the % Error in Lab w/ 10 mL Water

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the percent error from a lab experiment involving the measurement of water volume using a graduated cylinder. Participants seek clarification on identifying the theoretical and experimental weights necessary for the percent error formula, specifically using data from a 10 mL water measurement.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents their data, stating they measured 8.9 mL of water and calculated the weight of the water to be 7.57 grams, but is uncertain about which values to use for theoretical and experimental weights in the percent error formula.
  • Another participant requests a clearer description of the experimental procedure, expressing confusion about the relationship between the stated volumes and weights.
  • A third participant reiterates the request for clarification, emphasizing the discrepancy between the expected 10 mL and the measured 8.9 mL, questioning how to define theoretical and experimental values.
  • One participant expresses frustration, stating that if the meniscus reads 8.9 mL, then that is the actual volume measured, not the intended 10 mL.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the definitions of theoretical and experimental weights, and there is ongoing confusion regarding the measurements taken during the experiment.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided a complete description of the experimental procedure, which may contribute to the confusion regarding the measurements and the application of the percent error formula.

lindseyam
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Homework Statement


I need to find the percent error from a lab I did in class. i have all the data but I don't know what would be used for the theoretical weight and experimental weight in the percent error formula. I used 10 mL, 25 mL, and 50 mL of water in a graduated cylinder. I'll just used the 10 mL information. I got 8.9 mL for the meniscus. The weight of the cylinder was 75.35 grams and with the water, 82.92 grams which makes the weight of the water 7.57 grams. So the problem once again is what I would use for the theoretical weight and experimental weight in the percent area formula. I would ask my teacher but he's not that friendly and makes me feel like an idiot.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Please describe the experimental procedure, experiment is unclear to me - I can't see a connection between 10 mL, 8.9mL and 7.57g.
 
Borek said:
Please describe the experimental procedure, experiment is unclear to me - I can't see a connection between 10 mL, 8.9mL and 7.57g.

I had 10 mL of water in the graduated cylinder and got a meniscus of 8.9 and the water weighs 7.57 grams. and the percent error formula is (theoretical - experimental) divided by theoretical X 100. Would theoretical and experimental be?
 
It still doesn't make sense.

lindseyam said:
I had 10 mL of water in the graduated cylinder and got a meniscus of 8.9

I don't get it. If the meniscus was at 8.9, you had 8.9 mL of water in cylinder, not 10 mL.

Would theoretical and experimental be?

:confused:
 

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