Math Problem Statement

A meteorologist forecasted that Monday's high temperature would be 76°F. On Monday, the temperature reached 80°F. What is the percent error in the meteorologist's forecast for Monday?

Solution

To calculate the percent error in the meteorologist's forecast, we use the formula:

Percent Error=(Actual ValueForecasted ValueActual Value)×100\text{Percent Error} = \left( \frac{|\text{Actual Value} - \text{Forecasted Value}|}{\text{Actual Value}} \right) \times 100

Here, the actual temperature on Monday was 80°F, and the forecasted temperature was 76°F. Substituting these values:

Percent Error=(807680)×100=(480)×100=0.05×100=5%\text{Percent Error} = \left( \frac{|80 - 76|}{80} \right) \times 100 = \left( \frac{4}{80} \right) \times 100 = 0.05 \times 100 = 5\%

So, the percent error in the forecast is 5%.

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are five related questions:

  1. How do you calculate the absolute error in a forecast?
  2. What are other uses of percent error in scientific calculations?
  3. How does percent error differ from percent change?
  4. How does rounding affect percent error in forecasts?
  5. How does margin of error factor into meteorological predictions?

Tip: Percent error is always expressed as a positive value, since it represents the magnitude of the difference, regardless of direction.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Percent Error
Measurement and Data Analysis

Formulas

Percent Error = |(Actual Value - Forecasted Value) / Actual Value| × 100

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8