Math Problem Statement

tate​ (a) the​ precision, (b) the​ accuracy, and​ (c) the greatest possible error of the following measurement number. 6.028 lb Question content area bottom Part 1 ​(a) The measurement is precise to the nearest thousandth of a lb. Part 2 ​(b) The measurement is accurate to    enter your response here significant​ digit(s). ​(Type a whole​ number.)

Solution

Let's break down the parts of the question and analyze the measurement 6.028lb6.028 \, \text{lb}.

(a) Precision

Precision refers to how finely a measurement is expressed. The measurement 6.028lb6.028 \, \text{lb} is given to the nearest thousandth of a pound, because it includes three decimal places. So:

  • The measurement is precise to the nearest thousandth of a pound.

(b) Accuracy

Accuracy refers to the number of significant digits in the measurement. Significant digits are the digits that carry meaning in the measurement. For 6.028lb6.028 \, \text{lb}, there are four significant digits: 6, 0, 2, and 8.

  • The measurement is accurate to 4 significant digits.

(c) Greatest Possible Error

The greatest possible error is half of the smallest unit of measurement. Since the measurement is precise to the nearest thousandth, the smallest possible unit is 0.001lb0.001 \, \text{lb}. The greatest possible error is half of this value:

Greatest possible error=0.0012=0.0005lb.\text{Greatest possible error} = \frac{0.001}{2} = 0.0005 \, \text{lb}.

Summary of answers:

  • (a) The measurement is precise to the nearest thousandth of a pound.
  • (b) The measurement is accurate to 4 significant digits.
  • (c) The greatest possible error is 0.0005 lb.

Would you like further clarification on any of these points or more details?

Here are some related questions you might find interesting:

  1. How does precision affect the reliability of measurements in scientific experiments?
  2. Why are significant digits important in reporting measurements?
  3. What is the difference between precision and accuracy in measurement?
  4. How can you determine the precision and accuracy of an instrument used for measurement?
  5. What is the role of the greatest possible error in estimating the uncertainty of a measurement?

Tip: Always ensure the units you're working with match the level of precision needed for the specific context of your measurement.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Measurement
Precision
Accuracy
Significant Digits
Error Estimation

Formulas

Greatest possible error = 0.001 / 2

Theorems

Precision and Accuracy in Measurement

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11