Common Measurement Mistakes

❌ Common Mistakes in Measurement

1. Not Aligning Eye at Level (Parallax Error)

Looking from an angle while reading a scale leads to incorrect values.

✅ Always keep your eye level with the scale for accuracy.

2. Using a Faulty or Broken Instrument

Instruments with faded or missing marks can give wrong readings.

✅ Inspect your instruments before use.

3. Ignoring Zero Error in Vernier Calipers or Screw Gauge

Measuring without accounting for zero error gives inaccurate results.

✅ Always correct for zero error before final reading.

4. Rounding Off Incorrectly

Rounding too early or inaccurately can cause major errors in results.

✅ Use proper significant figures and round only at the end.

5. Wrong Least Count Interpretation

Many confuse the smallest division with the least count.

✅ Least Count = Value of one main scale division / number of divisions on the Vernier scale.