JEE Physics · Hard

Errors and Measurements: Accurate vs Precise MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

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Accurate vs PreciseHardQuestion 30175

Question

Four measurements of a 10 Ω resistor: 9.9, 10.1, 9.8, 10.2 Ω. The mean is 10.0 Ω. This set is:
  1. A
    Accurate but not precise
    Correct
  2. B
    Precise but not accurate
  3. C
    Both accurate and precise
  4. D
    Neither accurate nor precise

Correct answer

Accurate but not precise

Explanation

The mean (10.0 Ω) equals the true value — so the set is accurate. But the spread (max deviation 0.2 Ω) is large — so it is not very precise.