GACE science/math 088 UPDATED Exam Questions and CORRECT Answers

A group of students measured the boiling point of three different samples of pure water. Each measurement was made by a different student using the same thermometer. Their measurements were 94ºC, 99ºC, and 104ºC. Which of the following most likely accounts for the discrepancy in the measurements? - Ans The students misread the markings on the thermometer. Option (B) is correct. The error that most likely accounts for the discrepancy in the measurements is that the students misread the markings on the thermometer. The temperature at which water boils (100ºC at a pressure of 1 atmosphere) is the same regardless of what hot plate is used and how long the water is heated. If the thermometer had inaccurate markings, the students' measurements would likely all be either above or below the known boiling point.