3 ms·
I can say Pi = 3 and be accurate but not precise. I can say Pi = 3.0000004 and be precise but not accurate. But that's not where the confusion comes from. It
by georgyo 4y ago
I can say Pi = 3 and be accurate but not precise.
I can say Pi = 3.0000004 and be precise but not accurate.
But that's not where the confusion comes from. It comes from measuring equipment.
Example, if I have a scale that is sensitive enough to give several decimals of precision, it is very difficult to calibrate it so it is accurate.
Anyone who owns a gram scale knows you basically have to recalibrate it after every measurement. It will gladly give you many decimals of precision that is just wrong.
- hansvm 4y agoAnd for today's rant, you can also say Pi = 3 and be precise. Significant figures are a common shorthand for in-band signaling of error, but they're not the only tool and are really only useful insofar as they're pretty easy to do mental math with and relatively well known.
- deleted 4y ago[deleted]
- shagie 4y agoOn the subject of scales calibration and really small wights: Veritasium - How To Measure The Tiniest Forces In The Universe https://youtu.be/pXoZQsZP2PY https://youtu.be/pXoZQsZP2PY (it gets into measuring piconewtons and femtonetwons)