Chapter 2, Problem 87A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the two measurements reported by a person are accurate or not needs to be determined. Also, the precision of the measurements needs to be evaluated.

Concept introduction:

An accurate measurement is close to the accepted value. There could be little variation in the set of precise measurements.

Explanation of Solution

A person reports two measurement of mass, $\text{7}\text{.42}\text{g}$ and $\text{7}\text{.56}\text{g}$. The given measurements are precise because they are very close to each other. In order to predict the accuracy of the given measurements of masses, the accepted value should be known. Hence, the accuracy of the measurement is not known.