Zambrano, Jack Aaron V.

July 11, 2024

BSCE – 2D

Introduction:
Errors are an inherent part of any engineering measurement, and they have a
significant impact on the accuracy and precision of the results. It is crucial to understand
the types of errors and their impacts in order to interpret data correctly. Three common
error types include absolute, relative, and percentage errors. Additionally, the Taylor
series plays a role in analysis and mathematical approximations by helping us
understand and estimate these errors in analysis and mathematical approximations.
This concept proves useful when dealing with logarithmic, exponential, and
trigonometric functions. The Taylor series also helps in the application of analysis and
engineering by facilitating estimation and modeling processes and simplifying
calculations. By identifying and addressing these errors effectively, we can improve the
reliability of outcomes and computational results, leading to advancements in research
and engineering practices.

Objective:
1.) To understand the impact of errors in scientific and engineering measurements, and
understand the three common types of errors (absolute, relative, and percentage).

2.) To learn how to calculate errors in a data.

3.) To find the value of a function at any points and to solve the derivatives of the
function

4.. To comprehend the role of the Taylor series in numerical analysis and error
estimation.

5.) To learn techniques to recognize and mitigate these errors to enhance the reliability
of experimental and computational outcomes, thereby improving scientific and
engineering practices.

Materials and equipment:

1.) Ballpen

- is a writing instrument that dispenses ink over a small rotating metal ball at its
tip. The ink is oil-based and dries quickly, making it practical for smooth and
consistent writing.
 2.) Paper

- is a thin material made from fibers, typically derived from wood, rags, or
grasses. It can be used for writing the solutions in the Taylor Series

3.) Laptop/Computer

- is a portable personal computer with an integrated screen and keyboard. It can

be used to access online resources and reference materials. It is also useful
since through a laptop, we can access Excel.

4.) Calculator

- is an electronic device used to perform mathematical operations, from simple

arithmetic to complex calculations. It is very useful in the calculation of errors and
Taylor series.

5.) Reference books

- provides backgrounds in background formula and examples related to errors,

Taylor series, and function approximation.

METHODS:
Accuracy and errors

The activity is about assessing each of the subcontractor’s performance in a civil

engineering project. It focuses on how accurately a subcontractor can place the beam at
a given depth which is 350 mm.

1.) It begins with gathering and checking the beam’s depth for subcontractors A, B,
and C.
2.) We then calculate how accurately a subcontractor can place the beam at a given
depth, which is 350 mm.
3.) Using Excel, we just input the formula for absolute, relative, and percentage error
in the cell or in the formula bar in order for it to automatically tabulate our results
with one click.
ABSOLUTE ERROR, Ea:

RELATIVE ERROR, Er =

PERCENTAGE ERROR, Ep =
 4.) The results show that subcontractor B has the highest average percentage error.
Therefore, we can conclude that subcontractor B's work is the most erroneous.
While subcontractor A has the lowest average percentage error, therefore, we
can conclude that subcontractor A's work is the most accurate.
5.) Recommendations for subcontractor B, who has the erroneous work, include
checking and adjusting his measurement tools, practicing and training more, and
using great-quality measurement materials. This recommendation will greatly
improve the accuracy and precision of subcontractor B. It is important to make
these recommendations for project safety and for the subcontractor to keep
improving his skills.

Taylor series

1. It starts by solving each function up to their sixth derivative

2. Putting the c values in the function to find their values
3. After getting the values, substitute it into the Taylor Series formula
4. We then simply the function using the summation notation of the Taylor Series

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

Based on the results, subcontractor B has the highest average absolute, relative,
and percentage error, indicating that his work is the most erroneous. While
subcontractor A has the lowest average absolute, relative, and percentage error,
making their work the most accurate, Subcontractor C, on the other hand, is neither the
most accurate nor the most erroneous. As a result, I recommend that subcontractor B
improve his accuracy and precision by checking and adjusting his measurement tools,
getting more practice and training, and using high-quality materials. These steps are
critical for project safety and skill enhancement for subcontractor B, as well as for his
workers.

Summary:
In this week’s laboratory, we tackle two activities. The first activity was identifying
which subcontractor had done the erroneous and accurate work using absolute,
relative, and percentage errors. It was identified that subcontractor B had the most
erroneous work, while subcontractor A had the most accurate work out of the three
subcontractors. These activities showed us how errors significantly impact the accuracy
and precision of the results. It also helps us learn how to avoid these errors.

In our second activity, we tackled the Taylor Series. This method aids in precise
approximations and simplifies calculations. It was also helpful because it reminded me
of my differential calculus knowledge. This activity provides me with insights and
solutions that were difficult to find directly.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the laboratory activity gives me a better understanding of the topics
that we have discussed in week one. Errors have a significant impact on the accuracy
and precision of the results. Recognizing and mitigating these errors is critical because
they can increase the reliability of experimental and computational outcomes, thereby
improving overall scientific and engineering practices. This also gives me new
knowledge about precise approximations and simplifying calculations using the Taylor
series.