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Is it possible to calibrate a ruler so accurately that measuring uncertainty is eliminated?
Wiki User
∙ 12y ago
Hope that was helpful.
Second opinion: The answer is no. There is always some level of uncertainty in any measurement. Even if you could measure down to the atomic scale, there are still sources of error in the measurement.
The other issue is the difference between precision and accuracy. Precision is the ability for you to make the same measurement every time you make it. So for example, if you are measuring the length of an object, assuming that the object does not change length, you measure the same number every time.
Accuracy is the degree to which your measurement reflect the true value.
So lets say you have an object that is 12 inches long. That is it's true value. You grab a ruler and measure it to be 11.96 inches long. There is 0.04 inches of error in your first measurement. You can repeat this measurement and you will not get the same thing every time. So your second measurement results in 11.92 inches, third is 12.03 inches... all very close to the true value, but not EXACTLY 12. If a great number of measurements average out to be 12 inches, then you are using a pretty ACCURATE measuring device. What would happen if you had a device that measured 11 inches EVERY TIME... that would be a case of having a very PRECISE measurement, but not very accurate.
The goal of any measuring device is to be both precise AND accurate... that would be like having a device measure your 12 inch long object to be 11.98,12.02,11.99, etc. Every measurement you make is very close to each other AND to the true value of the object you are measuring.
How do you know the true value?? Ah ha...now you are thinking. You gather the most precise and accurate measuring devices in the world and you take ALOT of measurements. You compare your results to the results from other labs around the world and analyze the data to determine how accurate and precise you can make a measurement. These are usually done to a level of accuracy and precision far beyond anyone's need for any better... in most cases.
Wiki User
∙ 12y ago
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Why is necessary to use measuring tools in measuring length of an object?
It is necessary because measuring tools help you measure the length of an object accurately.
What is a doubt or uncertainty in measurement?
Basically your uncertainty is the innaccuracy or your measurement. For instance if you had a yard ruler that was marked only in inches and the length of the object you were measuring lied somewhere between 12 and 13 inches; you could state that the objects length is 12 1/2 inches ± 1/2 inch. The ± 1/2 part is your uncertainty, it means the measurement could be either 1/2 inch longer or shorter than your stated measurement.
How the length of computer is measured?
You apply a measuring stick or a measuring tape.You apply a measuring stick or a measuring tape.You apply a measuring stick or a measuring tape.You apply a measuring stick or a measuring tape.
Was measuring time easier in the past or now?
Depends on how you mean. Accurate timing wasn't as important earlier, which meant that getting it a little wrong didn't matter much. And if being a bit wrong doesn't matter, then measuring becomes easier. OTOH, clocks and watches were cruder too. If you really wanted to time an event accurately, it would have been more difficult. Today OTOH, even a basic wristwatch can measure down to the 1/100 of a second. We have both better tools to measure time, but also much greater need to measure time accurately.
What measuring tool do you need to measure the distance around a basketball?
A piece of string and a ruler or tape measure.
Who would calibrate a multimeter?
An electrician, it is an electronic measuring instrument
What is the use of the measuring spoon?
Measuring spoons are for measuring small amounts of ingredients accurately.Measuring spoons are for measuring small amounts of ingredients accurately.
What is certainty and uncertainty in quantum mechanics?
certainty means how are you accurate in measuring a physical quantity. There is always some uncertainty in measuring of any physical quantity . It is given by higenberg's uncertainty principle. Quantum mechanics deals with the physical quantities which have some discreet values. So The measurement is not certain.
How do you measure the uncertainty of a measuring tool?
You have to find the LC (the least countable) of the tool.
Why is Callippus famous?
For accurately measuring the length of the seasons
What is the function of measuring?
To measure cooking supplies accurately.
When you do an experiment is it important to have all measuring accurate?
It would be pointless doing the experiment and not measuring accurately
What are 3 ways to accurately read a measuring cylinder?
looklistenlearn!
What is the best apparatus for accurately measuring the volume of a liquid?
hydrometer
Why is necessary to use measuring tools in measuring length of an object?
It is necessary because measuring tools help you measure the length of an object accurately.
How do you calibrate a micrometer?
by measuring something with a known constant thickness, a dollar bill or something. A 'gage block' is best
Why is using a clear glass or plastic measuring cup preferable to using a dry measuring cup when measuring liquids?
You can see the amount more accurately.
