Calibrate - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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In GCSE Biology, to calibrate means to adjust or check a measuring instrument to ensure it gives accurate and reliable results. Calibration is often done by comparing the instrument’s readings to a known standard or reference. For example, a thermometer might be calibrated using water at 0°C or 100°C to check that it measures freezing or boiling points correctly. Calibration is important in biology experiments because it reduces measurement errors and increases the reliability of the data collected.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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