The affinity of a protein for its ligand was measured by isothermal titration calorimetry. The experiment was repeated multiple times to mitigate error by:

Question

The affinity of a protein for its ligand was measured by isothermal titration calorimetry.  The experiment was repeated multiple times to mitigate error by:

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecba2d_0e8f_eaa9_a3bf_e11fa6182eaa_MD0008_00 A measurement is said to be precise (reliable) if similar results are obtained on repeated trials. It is accurate if it correctly represents the real-world value as assessed by comparison with a "gold standard," the best available benchmark test that is considered accurate. One or more gold standards are used to calibrate the instrument being used for measurement, allowing researchers to be confident that future measurements are accurate. If experimental results are both precise and accurate, they are said to be valid, as they reliably represent the correct value. In this scenario, an experiment was repeated multiple times. This allowed researchers to determine whether repeated trials yield similar results. Therefore, the purpose of the repetition was to assess the precision of the results. (Choices B and D) To assess accuracy, the instrument used for measurements must be calibrated against a gold standard. Because no gold standard calibration is mentioned, accuracy of the results cannot be determined. (Choice C) Valid experiments must have results that are both precise and accurate because they must correctly measure the real-world value of the phenomenon of interest. Because the results were not compared to a gold standard, accuracy cannot be determined. Educational objective: A measurement is said to be precise, or reliable, if similar or very close results are obtained on repeated trials. Accuracy can be assessed using a "gold standard" test, which is used to calibrate instruments. A result is said to be valid if it is both precise and accurate, as it reliably produces real-world values.

The Affinity of a Protein for Its Ligand Was Measured