To determine which measurement is more precise and which is more accurate, we need to understand the definitions of precision and accuracy:
- Precision refers to how consistently you can get the same measurement, regardless of whether it is close to the true value. It is about the number of significant digits in a measurement.
- Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the true or actual value.
Now, let's analyze the provided measurements:
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Manufacturer's Scale: 3285.8 pounds
- Precision: This measurement is precise because it includes a decimal point to the tenths place, indicating a high level of detail (accurate to 0.1 pound).
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Department of Transportation's Scale: 3270 pounds (to the nearest ten pounds)
- Precision: This measurement is less precise because it only provides a rounded figure to the nearest ten pounds.
Now, let's consider accuracy:
- The true weight of the Corvette is 3271 pounds.
- The manufacturer's scale (3285.8 pounds) is not close to the true weight (3271 pounds), so it is not accurate.
- The Department of Transportation's scale weight (3270 pounds) is closer to the true weight of 3271 pounds, making it more accurate.
Conclusion:
- More Precise: The manufacturer's scale (3285.8 pounds) is more precise.
- More Accurate: The Department of Transportation's scale (3270 pounds) is more accurate.