Absolute Uncertainty Calculator

Calculate absolute uncertainty from relative uncertainty and measured values for statistical analysis

Calculate Absolute Uncertainty

The actual measured quantity or observation

%

Relative uncertainty as a percentage

Uncertainty Results

±0.0000
Absolute Uncertainty
0.00%
Relative Uncertainty
0.0000
Lower Bound
0.0000
Upper Bound

Formula used: AU = MV × (R/100)

Measurement range: 0.0000 ± 0.0000 (0.0000 to 0.0000)

95% Confidence Interval: [0.0000, 0.0000]

Uncertainty Analysis

Example Calculation

Temperature Measurement

Scenario: Outdoor temperature measurements

Mean temperature: 60.0°F

Standard deviation: 1.8°F

Relative uncertainty: (1.8/60.0) × 100 = 3.0%

Calculation

AU = MV × (R/100)

AU = 60.0 × (3.0/100)

AU = 60.0 × 0.03

AU = ±1.8°F

Range: 58.2°F to 61.8°F

Types of Uncertainty

A

Type A

Statistical analysis

Evaluated by repeated observations

B

Type B

Other means

Based on scientific judgment

C

Combined

Standard uncertainty

Root sum of squares

Measurement Tips

Always report measurements with uncertainty

Use appropriate significant figures

Consider all sources of uncertainty

Validate with repeated measurements

Understanding Absolute Uncertainty

What is Absolute Uncertainty?

Absolute uncertainty represents the margin of error in a measurement, expressed in the same units as the measured quantity. It tells you the range within which the true value likely lies and is essential for understanding measurement reliability.

Why is it Important?

  • Quantifies measurement precision and reliability
  • Essential for error propagation calculations
  • Required for proper scientific reporting
  • Helps compare measurement quality

Formula Explanation

AU = MV × (R/100)

  • AU: Absolute uncertainty (same units as measurement)
  • MV: Measured value (the quantity being measured)
  • R: Relative uncertainty (percentage)

Note: Absolute uncertainty is also commonly calculated from standard deviation when multiple measurements are available.

Common Applications

  • Scientific measurements and laboratory work
  • Engineering tolerance analysis
  • Quality control and manufacturing
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Medical and clinical measurements

Interpretation Guidelines

<1% Relative Uncertainty: Excellent precision

1-5% Relative Uncertainty: Good precision

5-10% Relative Uncertainty: Acceptable precision

>10% Relative Uncertainty: Poor precision