Ethics and measurement Errors in measurement can cause major problems for consumers and the economy.
Every country has a government department that regularly checks commercial instruments for error, such as petrol station pumps and shop weighing scales. In doing so, customers can be confident that they are being sold exactly what they are paying for. In Ireland these checks are carried out by the National Metrology Laboratory.
:Fig. 25.27 ? TEST TUBE 12. Explain the difference between a random error and a systematic error.
13. Identify whether the following errors are an example of a blunder, a systematic error or a random error: a. The investigation is taking place beside a radiator. b. The metre stick is quite old and worn. c. The mass balance is not set to zero when the investigation begins. d. The student fails to follow the investigation method properly. e. The table is unsteady and the equipment moves a lot.
:Fig. 25.28
14. What problems could arise if you measure a running track using your own feet as the unit of measurement?
15. List three situations in which incorrect measurement could lead to overcharging of customers.