How often do math calculations differ from observations?
Which is then is the accepted part of an experiment?
The math or the observation?
2007-02-25 01:51:12 · 2 answers · asked by Tony 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
It differs very often. The math is usually a way to explain a certain phenomena and is often based on a number of simplifying assumptions. Therefore, in most cases, the observation would be closer to the truth (if observed using accurate measures/instruments).
There are exceptions, though, where it is known that the math is a 100% accurate description of nature. If your measure of the input to the calculation is more accurate than your measure of the output, you will probably consider the math the "correct" answer.
2007-02-25 02:07:52 · answer #1 · answered by Ivan 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi. Some simple math cannot precisely reflect observation. A circle is exactly 360 degrees round, but multiplying the diameter by Pi ALWAYS equals more or less because we stop the value of Pi at some point. Divide a circle into 3 pieces and a similar problem exists. .333333... times 3 equals .999999..., not 1
2007-02-25 09:56:14 · answer #2 · answered by Cirric 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋