Questions and Answers
When carrying out an experiment you need to consider both __________ and __________.
accuracy, precision
What is accuracy?
How close a measured value is to the actual (true) value.
What is precision?
How close measured values are to each other.
Measurements can be accurate without being _______.
Signup and view all the answers
What is range?
Signup and view all the answers
The most precise data has the ______ range; these results are most likely to be the most reliable.
Signup and view all the answers
What are 2 types of precision?
Signup and view all the answers
How do we know if the data is repeatable?
Signup and view all the answers
Carrying out an experiment multiple times will also improve what?
Signup and view all the answers
How do we know if the data is reproducible?
Signup and view all the answers
If several scientists can reproduce the results it is more likely that the results ____ _________.
Signup and view all the answers
Results that are repeatable and reproducible are said to be __________.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Accuracy and Precision in Chemistry
- Consider both accuracy and precision when conducting an experiment.
- Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the actual (true) value. Example: Hitting the bull's eye with an arrow.
- Precision indicates how closely measured values are to each other, regardless of their proximity to the true value. Example: Arrows landing closely together but not near the bull's eye demonstrates good precision.
- Measurements can be accurate without being precise and vice versa.
Range and Data Quality
- The range of data provides insight into its precision; a smaller range suggests greater precision.
- The most precise data exhibits the smallest range, making these results more reliable.
Types of Precision
- Two types of precision exist:
- Repeatability: Consistency in results when the same person performs the experiment multiple times using the same method and equipment.
- Reproducibility: Consistency of results when the experiment is repeated by different people with different equipment.
Importance of Repetitions
- Conducting an experiment multiple times can enhance accuracy by ensuring that results are consistent.
Reliability of Results
- Results that have been both repeatable and reproducible are considered reliable.
- If multiple scientists reproduce the results, it increases the likelihood that those results are accurate.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge on the concepts of accuracy and precision in chemistry. These flashcards will help clarify these important terms and their significance in experimental measurements. Perfect for students looking to enhance their understanding of scientific measurements.
