In: Physics
What is the difference between random error and systematic errors ? How do you correct each one ?
Random error is due to sudden change in conditions of the experiment for example change in temperature, humidity. Change in temperature might lead to change in length of equipment which will change readings. To reduce this error, multiple readings are taken and we find the average. By taking the average, random errors tend to cancel out.
Systematic error is due to some problem in
1. measuring equipment, for example, zero error of a screw gauge
2. observation, for example, parallax error
3. external conditions, for example, some external magnetic field might induce currents in the equipment and hence impact the readings
To reduce systematic errors, we need to avoid any problem in measuring equipment, in external conditions and in observation. We need to make adjustment to our readings if we cannot avoid these errors. For example, zero error has to be subtracted or added to compensate the reading. We should maintain proper environmental conditions required for experiment and we should take observation properly.