PHY C1: Systematic and Random Errors

What are Errors in measurements?

Deviations that give rise to incorrect readings. Classified as systematic or random.

What are Systematic Errors?

Errors that result in all readings or measurements being either always above or always below the true value by a fixed amount.

Can Systematic Errors be eliminated?

Yes, if the source of the error is known and accounted for. Cannot be eliminated by repeating measurements and averaging.

What are some examples of Systematic Errors?

Not accounting for zero-error in an instrument. Not accounting for background radiation.

What are Random Errors?

Errors that result in readings or measurements being scattered about the mean value. They have equal probability of being positive or negative.

Can Random Errors be reduced?

Yes, by repeating measurements and finding the average value. By plotting a graph and drawing a line of best fit.

What are some examples of Random Errors?

Variation in diameter of a piece of wire, fluctuations in the count-rate of a radioactive decay.

Why is it important to determine the type of error?

To establish how the error occurs and whether it can be eliminated.