Question

Random error or systematic error for the following. Explain your reasoning!

() A calorimetry experiment requires you to measure the temperature of iced water placed inside an aluminum cup. The thermometer touches the bottom of the cup. When measuring the amount of water contained is a graduated plastic cylinder, your eyes are pot level with the water. (g) 4

Answer 1

step1) Random errors in experimental measurements are caused by unknown and unpredictable changes in the experiment. These changes may occur in the measuring instruments or in the environmental conditions.Random errors often have a Gaussian normal distribution

while

Systematic errors in experimental observations usually come from the measuring instruments. They may occur because:

• there is something wrong with the instrument or its data handling system, or
• because the instrument is wrongly used by the experimenter.

step2)

f) this would fall under SYSTEMATIC ERROR. (instrument is wrongly used by the experimenter.)

G)this would fall under RANDOM ERROR.(This would lead to Gaussian normal distribution )