In everyday speech, the words precision and accuracy are often used interchangeably. When these terms are used in science, are their meanings the same as their everyday meanings?

Question

Chemistry

Prancer

6 May, 19:37

In everyday speech, the words precision and accuracy are often used interchangeably. When these terms are used in science, are their meanings the same as their everyday meanings?

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Shelby · Answer 1

The term accurate used in physical science means correct. The term precise in physical science means repeatable, reliable, getting the same measurement each time. In Science you can never make a perfect measurement the best you can do is to come as close as possible.