Distinguish random from systematic error

GCSE · Combined Science · CCEA · PS.5 — Evaluating investigations: limitations of methods, sources of error, suggested improvements

Question

CCEA Double Award Practical Paper (Foundation)

A student measures the length of a piece of wire five times and gets readings of 24.5 cm, 24.7 cm, 24.4 cm, 24.6 cm and 24.5 cm. The wire is actually 30.0 cm long because the ruler had its end worn off.

(a) State whether the error is random or systematic. (1 mark) (b) State how the student could correct this error. (1 mark)

2 marks · take your time before peeking.

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Generated by TopMyGrade AI · cross-check official sources before relying on the mark-scheme phrasing.