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This guide explains the critical concepts of accuracy and precision in experimental values. Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the accepted standard, while precision indicates the reproducibility of measurements. The significance of digits plays an essential role in reporting results. It describes how to determine which digits are significant based on measurement instruments and offers rules for calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Proper rounding techniques are also discussed to ensure accurate final reporting.
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Qualitative definitions Sept 20
Accuracy and Precision • Accuracy – how close the experimental value is to the accepted value • Precision – how reproducible the experimental values are Insert picture Pg. 813
Significant Digits • Precision is the place value of the last measurable digit and is determined by the instrument • 12.0 g vs 12 g vs 10 g • Non-zero numbers are significant • Zeros to the left are not significant • Zeros to the right are significant
In Calculations • In addition/subtraction • the final sum has the same precisions the least precise digit • In multiplication/division • the final product has the same number of significant digits (sig figs) as the factor with the smallest number of sig figs
Rounding • Never round off during a calculation • Round when reporting the final answer • Use 5 as the turning point