I asked this, and didn't get a very helpful response.
Question: hi, i did this lab, from this website and I was wondering if anyone could come up with 3 sources of error, and they can't be human error. Thanks! You are saving me! Seeing as I am not allowed to post to the website :(, search on google liver lab with sand, and it is with a site called zerobio. Thanks!
Response:If you followed the directions exactly, what kind of errors could there be?
Problem: ok, well in a scientist's point of view, and from a teacher's perspective, there are always errors, and I need to come up with 6, I have 3, but I need 3 more, so any help would be great. Thanks!
To come up with three additional sources of error for your lab, you can consider the following possibilities:
1. Instrumental error: This refers to any inaccuracies or limitations in the instruments or equipment used during the experiment. For example, if there is a calibration error in the instruments used for measuring or recording data, it could introduce inaccuracies in the results.
2. Environmental factors: The environment in which the experiment is conducted can also introduce errors. Factors such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, and light conditions can affect the outcome of the lab. For instance, if the temperature in the lab fluctuates during the experiment, it could lead to imprecise measurements.
3. Sample preparation: The way the samples are prepared or handled can introduce errors. If the samples are not properly mixed, diluted, or stored, it can affect the accuracy of the results. For example, if the sample is not mixed thoroughly, it could result in uneven distribution and inconsistencies.
Remember, these are just some possible sources of error, and they may or may not be applicable to your specific lab. It's important to analyze your experiment and identify potential sources of error based on the procedures and variables involved.
To come up with additional sources of error for your lab experiment, you can consider the following factors:
1. Instrumentation errors: There may be inaccuracies or limitations in the instruments or equipment used during the experiment. For example, if you used a thermometer to measure temperature, it could have a calibration error or a limited precision, leading to an inaccurate measurement.
2. Environmental factors: External conditions could introduce errors into your results. Temperature fluctuations, humidity levels, and air pressure changes could all impact your experiment. For instance, if the room temperature fluctuated during the experiment, it might affect the reaction rate or the stability of the substances involved.
3. Contamination or impurities: The presence of impurities or contaminants in your materials or solutions can introduce errors. For example, if the sand used in your experiment was contaminated with other substances, it could affect the reaction or alter the expected results.
4. Procedural errors: Mistakes or inconsistencies in following the experimental procedure could introduce errors. This could include incorrect time measurements, insufficient mixing of reagents, or applying unequal pressure during certain steps.
5. Sample inconsistency: If your experiment involves biological samples, there can be variation within the samples themselves. This can be due to differences in biological traits, such as genetic variations or variation in the health or age of the organisms used.
6. Data analysis mistakes: Errors can also stem from errors in data recording, calculations, or interpretation. Human error might not be allowed as a source of error, but computational or mathematical errors can still occur.
By considering these factors, you should be able to identify additional sources of error for your lab experiment. Remember, it's important to thoroughly analyze each step of the experiment to identify potential areas where errors might occur.