Source: Extra Practice

Which of the following is NOT a systematic error?

Options

Option A

Zero error in a Vernier calliper

Option B

Error due to personal bias of the observer

Option C

Error due to change in temperature during the experiment

Option D is correct

Error due to random fluctuations in line voltage

Explanation

Systematic errors are those that tend to be in one direction (either positive or negative) and can often be identified and corrected (instrumental errors, personal errors, imperfection in technique). Random errors, however, are those that occur irregularly and are due to random and unpredictable fluctuations in experimental conditions like temperature, voltage, or mechanical vibrations. Therefore, random fluctuations in line voltage are classified as random errors, not systematic errors.