Question

what is an example of a systemic error in an experiment?
a) higher than average humidity in the room preventing static charges from forming
b) spilling a powder while transferring it from a scale to a beaker
c) a scale consistently giving masses that are 0.01 g lower than expected
d) misreading a thermometer

Explanation:

A systemic error is a consistent, repeatable error. Option C describes a scale consistently giving masses that are 0.01 g lower than expected, which is a systemic error as it is a consistent deviation from the true value. Option A is about humidity affecting static - charge formation, not an error in measurement. Option B is about spilling powder during transfer, which is a random error (not consistent). Option D is about misreading a thermometer, which is also a random error (due to human error and not a consistent flaw in the measurement system).

Answer:

C. a scale consistently giving masses that are 0.01 g lower than expected