How Do You Calculate with Uncertainties in Lab Work?

[omarsalem91]

Homework Statement

Basically I'm doing a lab and it states that I am not to omit uncertainties from my calculations. It has been ages since I've calculated with uncertainties so when I went back to my notes, they weren't there! Now I am completely lost and clueless. I know there are such things as percent and integer based uncertainties but other than that I don't have any equations or examples to make myself clearer. I really hope that you guys can be of help to me.
Thanks

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[Redbelly98]

Welcome to PF omarsalem91.

Try reading the examples here:
http://spiff.rit.edu/classes/phys273/uncert/uncert.html

 

[baba89]

As a scientist, it is important to always include uncertainties in your calculations. This allows for a more accurate representation of your data and results. Without considering uncertainties, your calculations may be misleading and not reflect the true nature of your experiment.

To calculate with uncertainties, there are a few methods that can be used. One method is to use the percent uncertainty, which is calculated by taking the uncertainty value divided by the measured value and multiplying by 100%. This can be useful for determining the overall uncertainty in a set of data.

Another method is to use the propagation of uncertainties, which takes into account the uncertainties of each individual measurement and how they affect the final result. This method involves using the partial derivatives of each measurement in the calculation to determine the overall uncertainty.

It is also important to note that uncertainties should be reported with the correct number of significant figures. This means that the uncertainty value should have the same number of decimal places as the measured value.

In order to fully understand and apply these methods, it may be helpful to review your notes or consult with your instructor or classmates. It is always better to ask for help and clarify any confusion rather than attempting to do calculations without considering uncertainties.