ERRORS IN

MEASUREMENTS
ASSIGNMENT I

Ali Asghar Khan | 20PWMEC4992

ME 342 QUALITY ENGINEERING | SUBMITTED TO: DR. ABDUL SHAKOOR
Write a short note (2-pages) on Errors in Measurements and Types of Errors.
Note: Use references where necessary
Errors in Measurements:
In the field of science and engineering, measurements are an integral part of experimental
studies. It is crucial to obtain accurate measurements to ensure the validity of the results.
However, all measurements come with some degree of error due to limitations in the
measurement devices, human error, and external factors. In this note, we will discuss the various
types of errors in measurements and their sources.

Types of Errors in Measurements:

There are two main types of errors in measurements: systematic errors and random errors.

1. Systematic Errors:
Systematic errors occur due to a consistent bias in the measurement process, leading to
inaccurate measurements that are consistently off by a certain amount. They can arise from
various sources such as calibration errors, environmental conditions, or instrument limitations.
For example, if a weighing scale consistently overestimates or underestimates weight, this is a
systematic error. Systematic errors can be reduced by using accurate calibration methods and
choosing equipment that is designed to minimize these errors.
a. Instrumental Errors: These errors are caused by limitations in the measurement device or
equipment, such as a scale that has a limited range or a thermometer that is not calibrated
correctly.
b. Environmental Errors: These errors occur due to variations in environmental conditions,
such as temperature, humidity, or pressure, that affect the measurement process.
c. Observational Errors: These errors occur due to human error, such as misreading the
measurement scale or recording incorrect values.

2. Random Errors:
Random errors, also known as statistical errors, are caused by the inherent variability in the
measurement process, resulting in measurements that deviate from the true value by random
amounts. They can be reduced by taking multiple measurements and calculating the average
value. The more measurements that are taken, the more accurate the results will be.
a. Instrumental Errors: These errors can arise due to variations in the instrument's sensitivity,
such as a scale that fluctuates or a thermometer that is not stable.
b. Environmental Errors: These errors can arise due to random variations in environmental
conditions, such as temperature or humidity fluctuations.
c. Observational Errors: These errors can arise due to variations in the observer's perception
or judgment, such as random errors in reading a measurement scale.
Sources of Errors in Measurements:
Errors in measurements can arise from various sources, some of which are:
1. Measurement Device: The accuracy and precision of the measurement device can
significantly affect the measurement's accuracy.
2. Calibration: Improper calibration of the measurement device can lead to systematic errors.
3. Environmental Factors: Variations in environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity,
and pressure, can cause errors in measurements.
4. Human Error: Observational errors can occur due to errors in reading the measurement
scale or recording incorrect values.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, accurate measurements are essential for the validity and reliability of scientific
and engineering studies. Systematic errors and random errors are the two main types of errors in
measurements, and they can arise from various sources, such as measurement devices,
calibration, environmental factors, and human error. Reducing these errors is crucial for
obtaining accurate measurements and ensuring the validity of the results. Researchers should be
aware of these errors and take appropriate measures to reduce them to the extent possible.

References:
1. BIPM - International Bureau of Weights and Measures. (2021). Guide to the Expression of
Uncertainty in Measurement. Available at:
https://www.bipm.org/en/publications/guides/gum.html
2. NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology. (2021). Measurement Error and
Uncertainty. Available at: https://www.nist.gov/pml/measurement-error-and-uncertainty