Question

How does a scientist reduce the frequency of human error and minimize a lack of accuracy?

a) Take repeated measurements.
b) Use the same method of measurement.
c) Maintain instruments in good working order.
d) All of the above

Answer 1

A scientist can reduce human error and enhance accuracy by taking repeated measurements, using the same method of measurement, and maintaining instruments in good working order; therefore, d) All of the above is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

How does a scientist reduce the frequency of human error and minimize a lack of accuracy? To minimize human error and enhance accuracy, scientists can:

1. Take repeated measurements to ensure that the data collected has less variability and greater reliability.
2. Use the same method of measurement to maintain consistency across all measurements, which helps in reducing systematic errors.
3. Maintain instruments in good working order, as well-functioning equipment is crucial for obtaining precise and accurate data.

Thus, the correct answer to the question is d) All of the above.

Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true or accepted value. When a scientist measures the length of standard computer paper and gets measurements such as 11.1 in., 11.2 in., and 10.9 in., these are considered accurate because they are very close to the correct value of 11.0 inches. In terms of precision, if these measurements are consistently close in value when repeated, then they are also precise.