Discrepancy

Definition

A discrepancy is the difference between an observed value and an expected or true value. In physics, it often highlights errors in measurement or calculations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Discrepancies can arise due to human error, instrument precision, or environmental factors.
2. In experiments, discrepancies indicate the accuracy and reliability of measurements.
3. Significant figures help minimize discrepancies by ensuring that only meaningful digits are reported.
4. A large discrepancy may suggest a systematic error or flaw in the experimental design.
5. Calculating discrepancies involves subtracting the expected value from the observed value.

Review Questions

• What is a discrepancy and how does it relate to measurement accuracy?
• How can significant figures reduce discrepancies in reported data?
• What might a large discrepancy indicate in an experimental context?

Related terms

Accuracy:

The degree to which a measured value agrees with the true or accepted value.

Precision:

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

$\text{Significant Figures}$: $\text{Digits in a measurement that contribute to its precision.}$