- #1
Loren Booda
- 3,125
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Rather than arithmetic ("plus or minus") uncertainties, are there classical (not of Heisenberg uncertainty principle) measurements whose uncertainties otherwise appear as geometric ("times or divided by")?
HallsofIvy said:I'm not sure what you mean by this. The error in a measurement depends upon the measuring instrument, not the "measurement" itself.
Arithmetic uncertainty is calculated by taking the average of the maximum and minimum possible values, while geometric uncertainty is calculated by taking the square root of the product of the maximum and minimum possible values.
Arithmetic uncertainty is more commonly used in scientific research as it provides a more conservative estimate of the possible range of values.
Arithmetic uncertainty tends to underestimate the accuracy of measurements, while geometric uncertainty tends to overestimate the accuracy. Therefore, it is important to consider both types of uncertainties when making measurements.
Yes, arithmetic and geometric uncertainties can be combined using the root-sum-square method, which takes into account both types of uncertainties to provide a more accurate estimate of the possible range of values.
The best way to reduce the impact of uncertainties is to increase the precision and accuracy of the measurement techniques and equipment being used. This can be achieved through proper calibration, validation, and use of statistical methods to analyze the data.