Module 6

Do you want to fly in a plane where all of the parts are “close” to fitting together?

 

Do you want to drive a vehicle where the nuts “almost” fit the bolts?

 

Have you ever put on a coat that fit “just right”?

 

Although every effort is made to build things perfectly according to the plan and dimensions, it is possible that measurements may not be totally accurate. There is often some slight variation in measurements and a limit to what is tolerable. In the case of the plane and vehicle, there are some dimensions that are more vital than others. You want to be sure that the engine parts fit exactly, but if the upholstery on the seats is a little off, you can probably tolerate it.

 

Understanding the limitations of measuring devices is critical to the success or failure of any project.

 

There are a number of terms associated with measurement. Knowing these terms, what they mean, and how they are applied can help you become a more critical thinker about the use of measurements in everyday life.

 

In this module you will discover new terms and notations connected to measurement, which will help you make informed decisions. You will work to answer the module question: How confident can you be in a given measurement?

 

In Module 6 you will focus on the lessons and questions in the table.

 

Lesson	Topic	Lesson Questions
1	Accuracy and Precision	Why is accuracy important in a measurement?
		How does precision play a role in the accuracy of a measurement?
2	Uncertainty	How is uncertainty related to precision?
		Why is it important to account for the uncertainty of a measurement?
3	Tolerances	How is tolerance applied in different situations?
		Why is there a need for tolerance in manufacturing?
		How is tolerance related to precision?
4	Measurement Applications and Problem Solving	How do accuracy, precision, uncertainty, and tolerance connect to real-world situations?
		What limitations of measuring instruments occur in solving problems?

 

You will be prompted to complete the Module 6 Project: Project Measurement as you work through the lessons. You might want to skip forward to the Module 6 Project for a sneak peek now.

 

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