Percent Error Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator determines the percentage difference between an experimental (measured) value and a theoretical (expected) value.
Purpose: It helps scientists, engineers, and students quantify the accuracy of experimental results compared to expected values.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The absolute difference between values is divided by the theoretical value and converted to a percentage.
Details: Percent error helps assess measurement accuracy, experimental reliability, and the quality of scientific results.
Tips: Enter both experimental and theoretical values. The theoretical value cannot be zero (division by zero is undefined).
Q1: What does a high percent error indicate?
A: High percent error suggests significant deviation between experimental and theoretical values, possibly due to measurement errors or flawed methodology.
Q2: Is a 0% error possible?
A: Yes, when experimental and theoretical values match exactly, though this is rare in practice.
Q3: Why use absolute value in the formula?
A: Absolute value ensures the error is always expressed as a positive percentage, regardless of direction.
Q4: What's an acceptable percent error?
A: This varies by field - 1-5% may be acceptable in some sciences, while engineering might require <1%.
Q5: How does this differ from percent difference?
A: Percent error compares to a known value, while percent difference compares two experimental values.