Lecture 1.1: The Rules of the Game
Core Idea
To establish the fundamental principles of scientific measurement, including the importance of standard units and an honest accounting for uncertainty.
Key Concepts
- SI Units (Système International)
- Uncertainty in Measurement
- Accuracy vs. Precision
- Significant Figures
- Dimensional Analysis
Essential Questions
- Why is it critical for scientists to have a shared system of units?
- What is the difference between accuracy and precision?
- How do significant figures help a scientist be "honest" about their measurements?
- What are the rules for using significant figures in calculations?