Enter the relative uncertainty and the measured value of a data point into the calculator to determine the absolute uncertainty.

Absolute Uncertainty Formula

The following formula is used to calculate an absolute uncertainty.

A = R /100 * MV

  • Where A is the absolute uncertainty
  • R is the relative uncertainty
  • MV is the measured value

Absolute Uncertainty Definition

An absolute uncertainty is defined as the total uncertainty of a set of data based on the relative uncertainty and a measured value.

Absolute Uncertainty Example

How to calculate absolute uncertainty?

  1. First, determine the relative uncertainty.

    Calculate the relative uncertainty.

  2. Next, determine the measured value.

    Calculate the measure or reported value.

  3. Finally, calculate the absolute uncertainty.

    Calculate the absolute uncertainty using the formula above.

FAQ

What is absolute uncertainty?

The absolute uncertainty is a value that provides a range of possible values when combined with a measured or reported value. In other words, if the measured value is 2 and the absolute uncertainty is .5, then the range of possible values is 1.5-2.5 or 2+/- .5.

What is relative uncertainty?

Relative uncertainty is the ratio of the absolute uncertainty to the measured value.