Comparative numerical laboratory
Formula Handbook Diagnostic Laboratory — Chapter 16
Evaluate error formulas and connect them with symbol definitions.
\[
E_{\rm abs}=|x-\tilde x|, E_{\rm rel}=\frac{|x-\tilde x|}{|x|}.
\]
Methods compared
| Method | Convenience | Inconvenience / warning |
|---|---|---|
| Absolute error | Works in original units. | Does not account for scale. |
| Relative error | Scale-aware. | Undefined or misleading when exact value is zero. |
| Diagnostic interpretation | Connects formulas to numerical decisions. | Needs context and assumptions. |
Illustrative plot / animation
Numerical diagnostics
What the student must compare
- absolute error
- relative error
- scale check
- symbol meaning