A student notices that a voltmeter consistently reads 5% higher than expected. How should this error be handled?Answer
A)The manufacturer’s calibration of 1% should be used for the uncertainty in the measurements and the student can ignore the fact that the readings are consistently 5% higher.
B)Multiple readings should be taken and averaged to reduce the impact of this error.
C)Each measurement can be reduced by the same amount (5%) prior to data analysis.
D)Knowing the size and direction of the systematic error is not enough to eliminate the effects of this error

Question

A student notices that a voltmeter consistently reads 5% higher than expected. How should this error be handled?Answer
A)The manufacturer’s calibration of 1% should be used for the uncertainty in the measurements and the student can ignore the fact that the readings are consistently 5% higher.
B)Multiple readings should be taken and averaged to reduce the impact of this error.
C)Each measurement can be reduced by the same amount (5%) prior to data analysis.
D)Knowing the size and direction of the systematic error is not enough to eliminate the effects of this error

anonymous · Answer

I would say C; if it's consistently off by 5% then you just subtract 5% before you analyze the data.

anonymous · Answer

I think I'd answer D, because maybe what I expect is not necesarily correct and then, the readings are fine, being just myself the one off by 5%.

anonymous · Answer

well.. i understand why you said D.. cause the error might not be in the voltmeter, maybe in the way he is carrying out the measurement.. human error

but never the less.. if i know i am consistently getting 5% error, then i will use my method itself.. and then subtract 5% from the final answer.. whats wrong in that?! 
so i think too it should be C