Why is Random Error Higher than Literature Error?

[huey910]

Homework Statement

In an experiment to determine the Ar of Li, the % error due to random errors was calculated to be 12.1%. However, the literature value is 6.941 and my calculated value is 7.5 which means my % error s 7.45.

Homework Equations

Usually, the error due to the literature value is greater than the % error due to random errors, but now it is the reverse - what does this mean?

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[gneill]

I'm not sure how you arrived at your error of 7.45%, but you should keep in mind that the error defines a region (a range of values) within which the 'true' value should lie. So long as your calculated value's error range overlaps the 'true' value, then all is well. If your calculated value happens to be close to the literature value, all the better, after all you were aiming for it!