Calculate the error (mm) in the linear measurement of offset, if the length of the offset is 80 m, then the accuracy in the measurement of the length is 1 cm in 60 m.
🧮 Understanding Measurement Accuracy
This question deals with proportional error. The accuracy is given as a ratio (1 cm of error for every 60 m of measurement). To find the error for a different length (80 m), we can set up a simple proportion.
🔬 Detailed Calculation
We are given the following information:
- Accuracy: 1 cm error per 60 m length.
- Measured Length: 80 m.
We can calculate the expected error for the 80 m offset as follows:
Error = (Error per unit length) × (Total length)
Error = (1 cm / 60 m) × 80 m
Error = 1.333... cm
The question asks for the answer in millimeters (mm). To convert from centimeters (cm) to millimeters, we multiply by 10:
Error in mm = 1.333... cm × 10 mm/cm
Error in mm = 13.33... mm
Therefore, the closest answer is 13.3 mm.
💡 Study Tips
- Proportionality is Key: Recognize that this is a ratio problem. Set up the proportion carefully to find the unknown error.
- Watch Your Units: The most common mistake in such problems is a unit conversion error. The accuracy is in 'cm per m', and the final answer is required in 'mm'. Always double-check your conversions.
- Estimate First: Since 80 m is a bit more than 60 m, you should expect the error to be a bit more than 1 cm (or 10 mm). This quick mental check helps eliminate obviously wrong answers like 0.075 or 7.5.
