Finding Uncertainty Using Upper/Lower Bound

In summary, the conversation is about a lab report and the issue of finding the uncertainty in calculating the average of three values. The recommended method is to calculate the weighted average using the uncertainty in each measurement, as explained in the provided link.
  • #1
AstroKeith
4
0
Hello,

I'm working on a lab report and am having a bit of trouble when it comes to figuring out uncertainty.

Trial 1 Acceleration: 0.93 ± 0.14 m/s^2
Trial 2 Acceleration: 0.83 ± 0.35 m/s^2
Trial 3 Acceleration: 0.93 ± 0.14 m/s^2

I have three values listed above and and wanted to find the average of the three along with the new uncertainty of that value but I am unsure of what to doEDIT: Figured out the upper lower bound issue I was having. I still do not understand how to find the uncertainty in the average though.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
The best method would probably be to calculate the weighted average by using the uncertainty in each measurement. See this http://www.colorado.edu/physics/phys2150/phys2150_sp14/phys2150_lec4.pdf if you have not done this before (or if you need review). The link also explains how to determine the uncertainty and there are a few examples.
 
  • #3
That was extremely helpful. Thanks so much!
 

FAQ: Finding Uncertainty Using Upper/Lower Bound

1. What is uncertainty and why is it important to find upper and lower bounds?

Uncertainty is the lack of exact knowledge or predictability about a situation or outcome. In scientific research, it is important to find the upper and lower bounds of uncertainty so that the results can be accurately interpreted and any potential errors or limitations can be identified.

2. How do you calculate upper and lower bounds of uncertainty?

The upper bound of uncertainty is calculated by adding the uncertainty value to the measured value, while the lower bound is calculated by subtracting the uncertainty value from the measured value. For example, if the measured value is 10 and the uncertainty is 1, the upper bound would be 11 and the lower bound would be 9.

3. How does the precision of measurements affect the upper and lower bounds of uncertainty?

The precision of measurements is directly related to the upper and lower bounds of uncertainty. The more precise the measurements, the smaller the uncertainty values and therefore the narrower the range between the upper and lower bounds. Conversely, less precise measurements will have larger uncertainty values and wider ranges between the upper and lower bounds.

4. What is the significance of having symmetrical upper and lower bounds of uncertainty?

Symmetrical upper and lower bounds of uncertainty indicate that the measurement is equally likely to be above or below the true value. This suggests that there is no systematic bias in the measurement and the results are more reliable.

5. How can the concept of upper and lower bounds of uncertainty be applied in real-world situations?

The concept of upper and lower bounds of uncertainty can be applied in various fields, such as engineering, finance, and environmental science. For example, in engineering, it can be used to determine the safe limits of a structure or product, while in finance, it can be used to assess the risk and potential return of an investment. In environmental science, it can be used to estimate the range of possible outcomes for natural processes or events.

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