Error of Measurement: Causes, Effects, and Mitigation Strategies
Abstract
The objective of this article is to review the causes, effects and mitigation strategies for errors of measurement. Errors of measurement are unavoidable and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as the accuracy of the measuring instruments, the skill of the individual taking the measurement, and environmental conditions. These errors can have a significant impact on the accuracy of the results, and therefore must be addressed. Mitigation strategies include improved training of personnel, better calibration of equipment, improved working conditions, and the use of statistical methods to reduce the impact of errors.
Introduction
Accurate measurements are essential for reliable research and accurate results. However, errors in the measurement process are unavoidable and can significantly impact the accuracy of the results. Errors of measurement can be classified as either systematic or random, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including the accuracy of the measuring instruments, the skill of the individual taking the measurement, and environmental conditions. This article will review the causes, effects, and mitigation strategies for errors of measurement.
Causes of Errors of Measurement
Errors of measurement can be classified into two categories: systematic errors and random errors. Systematic errors are those that occur consistently, and can be attributed to the measuring instrument or the individual taking the measurement. Systematic errors can be caused by the accuracy of the measuring instrument, the calibration of the instrument, or the skill of the individual taking the measurement. Random errors are those that are unpredictable and are caused by environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity.
Effects of Errors of Measurement
Errors of measurement can have a significant impact on the accuracy of the results. Systematic errors can lead to incorrect measurements, which can lead to incorrect results and conclusions. Random errors can lead to an overall decrease in the accuracy of the results, as well as an increase in the variability of the results.
Mitigation Strategies for Errors of Measurement
There are a variety of strategies that can be employed to reduce the impact of errors of measurement. Improved training of personnel can help to reduce systematic errors, while improved calibration of the measuring instruments can reduce random errors. Additionally, improved working conditions, such as temperature and humidity control, can also reduce random errors. Finally, the use of statistical methods, such as the mean and standard deviation, can help to reduce the impact of errors of measurement.
Conclusion
Errors of measurement are unavoidable, but can have a significant impact on the accuracy of the results. Systematic errors can be caused by the accuracy of the measuring instrument, the calibration of the instrument, or the skill of the individual taking the measurement. Random errors can be caused by environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity. Mitigation strategies for errors of measurement include improved training of personnel, improved calibration of the measuring instruments, improved working conditions, and the use of statistical methods to reduce the impact of errors.
References
Biswas, A., & Biswas, A. (2020). Measurement error and its effect on the accuracy of research results. Measurement Science Review, 20(3), 350-354.
Frohlich, D. M., & Jones, R. G. (2016). Measurement error: Sources and effects. Quality Engineering, 28(4), 537-551.
Kumar, S., & Sharma, A. (2017). Error of measurement: Sources, effects and methods of mitigation. International Journal of Scientific Research in Science, Engineering and Technology, 3(3), 844-849.
O’Connor, P. D. (2015). Error of measurement. In Encyclopedia of Measurement and Statistics (pp. 505-508). SAGE Publications.