Experimental Errors and Human Mistakes

Miss Culkin explains the difference between human mistakes and experimental errors in experiments. Human mistakes are often due to carelessness and can be corrected by redoing the experiment. Experimental errors are beyond control, often due to procedural limitations, and can be minimized by using better equipment or redesigning the experiment. The video provides examples and questions to help identify and avoid these errors, emphasizing the importance of precision and following lab directions.

What is the main difference between human mistakes and experimental errors?

• Human mistakes occur in calculations, while experimental errors occur in measurements.

• Experimental errors are caused by faulty equipment, while human mistakes are not.

• Human mistakes can be corrected, but experimental errors are often beyond control.

• Human mistakes are intentional, while experimental errors are accidental.

Which of the following is a common cause of human mistakes in experiments?

• Following the correct procedure

• Using advanced equipment

• Redesigning the experiment

• Carelessness in calculations

How can experimental errors be minimized?

• By using the same equipment for all experiments

• By ensuring all variables are kept constant

• By repeating the experiment multiple times

• By using better equipment and redesigning the experiment

Which of the following is an example of a human mistake?

• Using a faulty thermometer

• Assuming a constant temperature

• Using dirty glassware

• Measuring with a precise instrument

What should be done if a human mistake is identified during an experiment?

• Change the hypothesis

• Redo the experiment following the correct procedure

• Use the same data for analysis

• Ignore the mistake and continue

In the case study, what was the error when the student used the wrong formula?

• Procedure error

• Equipment failure

• Human mistake

• Experimental error

Why is assuming the temperature of metal to be the same as boiling water considered an experimental error?

• Because it involves using the wrong equipment

• Because it involves a calculation mistake

• Because it is beyond the student's control

• Because it can be corrected by redoing the experiment

What is a potential solution for distinguishing similar colors in experiments?

• Changing the lighting conditions

• Using a different chemical

• Using a color chart

• Using a digital camera

If a balance is not zeroed before use, what type of error does it represent?

• Procedural error

• Equipment error

• Human mistake

• Experimental error

What should be done if a solid product is not completely dry when mass is recorded?

• Use an iron for drying and then record the mass

• Record the mass as it is

• Assume the mass is correct

• Ignore the moisture content