Skip to content

Uncertainty

1 Definition

A parameter, associated with the result of a Measurement, that characterises the dispersion of the values that could reasonably be attributed to the Measurand.

Notes

Examples

Sources

  • GUM

2 Definition

Non-negative parameter, associated with Data, which characterizes the dispersion of the values [of a Trait ]that could reasonably be attributed to a Phenomenon [by means of sensing or modelling].

Notes

  • In case of quantitative(continuous) Data the uncertainty may be, for example, a standard deviation (or a given multiple of it), or the half-width of an interval having a stated level of confidence. (see e.g. standard and Expanded Uncertainty)
  • For qualitative (categorical?) Data uncertainty may be, for example, expressed by commission and omission (‘confusion matrix’) or overall errors.

Examples

Sources

  • modified from GUM, VIM4 :3.1, FIDUCEO, Notes added

3 Definition

Uncertainty is a measure of the spread of the distribution of possible values.

Notes

Examples

Sources

4 Definition

Parameter, associated with the result of Measurement, that characterizes the dispersion of values that could reasonably be attributed to the Measurand.

Notes

  • When the quality of accuracy or precision of measured values, such as coordinates, is to be characterized quantitatively, the quality parameter is an estimate of the uncertainty of the Measurement results. Because accuracy is a qualitative concept, one should not use it quantitatively, that is associate numbers with it; numbers should be associated with measures of uncertainty instead.

Examples

Sources

  • ISO 19116:2004(E)

5 Definition

Parameter characterizing the dispersion of the values being attributed to a Measurand, based on the Information used.

Notes

Examples

Sources

  • VIM4: 3.1