Measurement Error Calculator

In experimental physics and chemistry, no measurement is perfectly precise. Determining the magnitude of error is as critical as the result itself. This calculator assists students and researchers in quantifying the deviation between an Experimental Value (measured in the lab) and a Theoretical Value (accepted standard). Accuracy in error analysis is the cornerstone of a valid laboratory report, demonstrating the reliability of the experimental method used.

Measurement error is generally categorized into systematic error (predictable bias) and random error (statistical fluctuations). This tool computes the three standard metrics: Absolute Error (magnitude of difference), Relative Error (ratio of difference to the true value), and Percentage Error (the standard metric for academic grading). It distinguishes itself by auto-detecting significant figures, ensuring that the reported error does not imply false precision.

The calculator uses standard error analysis formulas based on the difference between the Experimental value (E) and the Theoretical value (T).

Note: The absolute value is taken because error magnitude is directionless in this context; however, a signed difference (E − T) can indicate if the result is an overestimate or underestimate.