Accuracy - (Intro to Chemistry) - Vocab, Definition, Explanations | Fiveable

Definition

Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the true or accepted value. It indicates the correctness of a measurement.

Accuracy is different from precision; accuracy reflects correctness while precision reflects consistency.
A measurement can be accurate but not precise if it is close to the true value but not consistently reproducible.
Systematic errors affect accuracy because they skew measurements in one direction, away from the true value.
Accuracy can be improved by calibrating instruments and using proper techniques.
In chemistry, accuracy is crucial for experiments where exact quantities are necessary for reactions.

The degree to which repeated measurements under unchanged conditions show the same results.

A consistent, predictable error that skews all measurements in one direction, affecting accuracy.

The process of adjusting an instrument to ensure its readings are accurate by comparing with a standard or known value.