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An anomalous result is one which does not fit the pattern.

Unit 4 - Reasons for Anomalous Results

Some results just do not fit the pattern. This quiz explores common reasons for anomalous data in GCSE Biology experiments and how to spot possible recording errors.

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Fascinating Fact:

Recording errors, including writing down numbers incorrectly or copying them wrongly into a table, can create apparent anomalies.

In GCSE Biology, you are expected to spot and explain anomalous results. Understanding possible recording errors and other causes of anomalies helps you evaluate the quality of your data.

Key Terms

Anomalous result: A result that does not follow the pattern of the other data and looks unexpectedly high or low.
Recording error: A mistake made when reading, writing, or copying a measurement into a results table.
Repeat reading: Taking the same measurement several times to check for consistency and reduce the impact of odd values.

Frequently Asked Questions (Click to see answers)

What is an anomalous result in a GCSE Biology practical?

An anomalous result is a value that does not fit the general pattern of the data. It may be much higher or lower than the other results and needs to be checked carefully.

What should I do if I spot an anomalous result?

If you spot an anomalous result, you should not ignore it. Highlight it, consider repeating the measurement, and suggest possible reasons why it might have occurred in your evaluation.

What can cause anomalous results in biology experiments?

Anomalous results can be caused by recording errors, misreading a scale, using equipment incorrectly, or unexpected changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or timing.

Try These Related Quizzes

1 .

Anomalous data is...

close to the mean value

not in agreement with the pattern

reliable

unacceptable

Anomalous data does not agree with the pattern of the rest of the data

2 .

Zero error is when the equipment is not set to...

the maximum value

the minimum value

a known starting value

the endpoint

You don't necessarily need to set equipment to zero, although it does make things simpler

3 .

A systematic error is due to...

the equipment used

random measurements

actual data

human error

Systematic errors lead to anomalous data which is repeated over and over again. This leads to data which can have a high precision but is inaccurate. The main problems can occur if you have to carry out your experiment over a period of several lessons as you may end up using different equipment each time. This will give different systematic errors for individual results

4 .

Systematic errors can be identified by...

calibration

changing the experiment

doing a different experiment

changing the key variable

This is a high level skill - if you plan to calibrate equipment in your investigation it would impress the marker!

5 .

If anomalous data is identified, the experiment can be repeated and this can be recalculated.

Range

Mean

Median

All parameters

You only need to repeat the experiment for the readings that were anomalous. If you do this, always include the value(s) of the anomalous data in the evaluation but not in your recalculations

6 .

Which of these pieces of equipment needs to be set to zero before use?

Beaker

Bunsen burner

Thermometer

Top pan balance

Air currents can affect a balance so make sure it has settled after zeroing and re-zero if necessary

7 .

If data is inaccurate, we will do more...

repeats

work

zeroing

variables

Using different equipment can identify if the errors are systematic

8 .

Identifying these can lead to increased accuracy and reliability.

Errors

Data

Results

Average

Most students will focus on human errors, higher level candidates will also try to suggest systematic errors too

9 .

A chart of this type can reveal anomalous data.

Flow chart

Pie chart

Scatter graph

Bar chart

A line of best fit will quickly show you any anomalous results

10 .

If scientists discover anomalous data, they will do this and take an average.

Repeat many times

Delete the bad data

Give up

Select a different experiment

Repeating the experiment many times and calculating the average can smooth out errors

You can find more about this topic by visiting BBC Bitesize - Practical skills

Author: Donna Davidson (GCSE Biology Teacher & Examiner, Quiz Writer)

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