Practical notes:
Sources of Error:
• Difficulty in matching colors:
Subjectivity in color matching can introduce inaccuracies, particularly in experiments
involving color changes to determine an endpoint.
• Inaccurate measurements:
Errors can arise from using imprecise measuring tools or incorrect procedures, leading to
skewed results.
• Variations in sample preparation:
Uneven sample preparation, such as differing sizes or depths of agar blocks, can affect the
outcome.
• Environmental factors:
Temperature fluctuations, humidity changes, and light exposure can unintentionally impact
experimental results.
Improvements:
• Standardized instruments:
Using calibrated instruments, such as burettes, pipettes, and microscopes, can minimize
measurement errors.
• Control of variables:
Maintaining consistent temperature, light, and humidity can reduce environmental
influences on results.
• Improved color matching:
Using a spectrophotometer or a color comparator can provide more objective readings
compared to visual judgment.
• Precise sample preparation:
Employing tools like molds for agar blocks can ensure uniformity in size and depth, while
also reducing the risk of sample damage.
• Multiple trials and statistical analysis:
Running multiple trials and analyzing the data statistically can help to identify and account
for random errors.
• Serial dilutions:
Diluting solutions in a controlled manner (e.g., serial dilutions) ensures accurate
concentration preparation.
• Proper control groups:
Including a control group helps to isolate the effect of the manipulated variable.
• Clear and precise instructions:
Using well-defined and easily understood instructions reduces the risk of misinterpretation
and errors during the procedure.
Example:
In an experiment involving the effect of salt concentration on plant cell water potential, a
common error could be the difficulty in accurately measuring the change in cell volume due to
osmosis. To improve this, one could use a microscope with an eyepiece graticule to measure the
cell volume before and after the experiment. By calibrating the eyepiece graticule and measuring
the change in cell diameter or area, a more precise determination of water potential changes can
be made.
In a practical biology exam, identifying sources of error and suggesting
improvements is crucial for demonstrating a strong understanding of
experimental design. Sources of error can be classified into instrumental,
environmental, procedural, and human errors. Improvements often involve
using more precise equipment, controlling variables, and refining experimental
techniques.
Sources of Error and Improvements:
1. Instrumental Errors:
• Source:
Inaccurate or faulty measuring instruments, such as a balance that does not read
correctly or a thermometer that is not calibrated accurately.
• Improvement:
Use calibrated and accurate instruments, ensure they are properly maintained, and
consider the precision of the instrument when recording measurements.
2. Environmental Errors:
• Source:
Uncontrolled environmental factors, such as temperature fluctuations or light
intensity, that can affect the results of an experiment.
• Improvement:
Use a controlled environment, such as a water bath with a thermostat, or shield the
experimental setup from external light sources.
3. Procedural Errors:
• Source:
Faulty experimental procedures, such as incorrect mixing of solutions or inaccurate
timing of events.
• Improvement:
Follow the procedure carefully, ensure proper techniques are used, and repeat the
experiment multiple times to account for any errors.
4. Human Errors:
• Source:
Mistakes made by the experimenter, such as incorrect reading of measurements,
miscalculations, or not following the procedure accurately.
• Improvement:
Be meticulous in recording measurements, double-check calculations, and ensure a
clear understanding of the procedure before starting the experiment.
Example:
• Source of Error: Difficulty in precisely measuring the volume of a liquid using a
syringe.
• Improvement: Use a more precise instrument, such as a graduated pipette or
burette, to measure the volume of the liquid.
General Improvements:
• Control Variables:
Ensure that all relevant variables are kept constant to minimize the impact of
uncontrolled factors.
• Repeat Measurements:
Repeat measurements multiple times and calculate the mean to improve the
reliability and validity of the results.
• Use Controls:
Include a control group or experiment to provide a baseline for comparison and
help identify any systematic errors.
• Careful Observation:
Pay close attention to details and record observations accurately.
• Consider Uncertainty:
When recording measurements, include the uncertainty or error associated with the
instrument.
