1. What is a Percent Difference Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the relative difference between two values as a percentage of their average.

Purpose: It helps compare two experimental values or measurements to understand their relative difference.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( A \) — First measured value
• \( B \) — Second measured value
• The vertical bars indicate absolute value

Explanation: The difference between values is divided by their average, then converted to a percentage.

3. When to Use Percent Difference

Details: Use when comparing two experimental values where neither is considered "correct" or "standard".

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter any two numerical values. The calculator will show their percent difference. Both values cannot be zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is percent difference different from percent change?
A: Percent change compares to an original value, while percent difference compares two equal-status values.

Q2: What does a 0% difference mean?
A: It means the two values are identical.

Q3: Can the result be negative?
A: No, the absolute value ensures the result is always positive (0-100%).

Q4: When would this be used in real life?
A: Comparing experimental results, instrument measurements, or before/after values in science and engineering.

Q5: What if both values are zero?
A: The calculation is undefined (division by zero), so the calculator won't return a result.