Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students Book contents
- Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students
- Reviews
- Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Preface to the Second Edition
- Preface to the First Edition
- 1 Introduction to Experimentation
- 2 Characteristics of Experimental Data
- 3 Graphical Presentation of Data
- 4 Dealing with Uncertainties
- 5 Statistical Approach to Variability in Measurements
- 6 Fitting a Line to x–y Data Using the Method of Least Squares
- 7 Report Writing and Presentations
- 8 Using Excel to Present and Analyse Data
- 9 Computer-Aided Data Capture
- Book part
- Solutions to Exercises and Problems
- Further Reading
- References
- Index
2 - Characteristics of Experimental Data
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 August 2019
- Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students
- Reviews
- Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Preface to the Second Edition
- Preface to the First Edition
- 1 Introduction to Experimentation
- 2 Characteristics of Experimental Data
- 3 Graphical Presentation of Data
- 4 Dealing with Uncertainties
- 5 Statistical Approach to Variability in Measurements
- 6 Fitting a Line to x–y Data Using the Method of Least Squares
- 7 Report Writing and Presentations
- 8 Using Excel to Present and Analyse Data
- 9 Computer-Aided Data Capture
- Book part
- Solutions to Exercises and Problems
- Further Reading
- References
- Index
Summary
Data provide the foundation upon which understanding in science and engineering is built. A basic requirement is that data are expressed in units that are recognised and accepted internationally. This chapter considers the most commonly adopted system of units: The International System of Units. The chapter also considers how to express data, for example using scientific notation. The importance of presenting data clearly in tables is emphasised.
In some situations, it is possible to estimate the size of values likely to emerge from an experiment, prompting our attention to be alerted when the values obtained differ considerably from our estimation. Exploring the reasons for a discrepancy can lead to improved insight of the experiment or perhaps hint that a mistake has occurred, for example when converting units.
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering StudentsAn Introduction to the Analysis and Presentation of Data, pp. 9 - 23Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2019