Final answer:
Poor precision in scientific measurements can be caused by instrument calibration errors, inadequate sample size, human error in observation, and environmental interference.
Step-by-step explanation:
Poor precision in scientific measurements can be caused by several factors:
- Instrument calibration errors: If the measuring device is not properly calibrated, it can lead to inaccurate measurements. For example, if a thermometer is not calibrated correctly, it may display an incorrect temperature reading.
- Inadequate sample size: When the sample size is too small, it can lead to imprecise measurements. For instance, if a study only includes a small number of participants, the results may not be statistically significant.
- Human error in observation: Mistakes made by the person conducting the measurements can also contribute to poor precision. Factors such as incorrect reading of instruments or inconsistent observation techniques can introduce errors.
- Environmental interference: External factors like temperature, humidity, or electromagnetic fields can affect the accuracy of measurements. For example, fluctuations in temperature can cause expansion or contraction of materials, leading to imprecise measurements.