The following measurements of the mass of an aspirin tablet were made by different students in a lab. Each set gives the results of 3 measurements followed by the average. Which set is the most precise? All values are in grams. The standard value reported by an analytical laboratory was 1.501 g.
A) 1.513, 1.503, 1.522 = 1.513
B) 1.513, 1.511, 1.450 = 1.491
C) 1.513, 1.459, 1.533 = 1.502
D) 1.513, 1.517, 1.512 = 1.514
E) 1.513, 1.510, 1.523 = 1.515

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most precise set of measurements is the one with the smallest range of values, which indicates a small amount of variation or uncertainty. Set D has the smallest range of values (1.517-1.512 = 0.005), and its average (1.514) is closest to the standard value (1.501). Therefore, set D is the most precise.

The Following Measurements of the Mass of an Aspirin Tablet