± Error Formula:
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± Error represents uncertainty as plus or minus the absolute error value in measurements and calculations. It indicates the range within which the true value is expected to lie.
The calculator uses the ± Error formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ± error provides a symmetrical uncertainty range around the measured value, indicating the precision of the measurement.
Details: Calculating ± error is essential for understanding measurement reliability, comparing experimental results, and determining the confidence interval of measurements in scientific and engineering applications.
Tips: Enter the absolute error value in appropriate units. The calculator will provide the ± error range. All values must be positive and valid.
Q1: What is the difference between absolute error and ± error?
A: Absolute error is the magnitude of uncertainty, while ± error expresses this uncertainty as a symmetrical range around the measured value.
Q2: How is ± error used in scientific reporting?
A: It's commonly used to report measurements as "value ± error" (e.g., 25.4 ± 0.2 cm) to indicate measurement precision.
Q3: Can ± error be negative?
A: No, ± error represents a range and is always expressed as a positive value, though it indicates both positive and negative deviations.
Q4: When should I use ± error vs relative error?
A: Use ± error when the absolute uncertainty is important; use relative error when comparing precision across different measurement scales.
Q5: How does ± error relate to confidence intervals?
A: ± error often represents one standard deviation in normally distributed measurements, corresponding to approximately 68% confidence interval.