Question

Performing a physics lab where a circuit is set up with a power source that has a voltage panel. The circuit has one resistor, the value is not necessary to understand this question. The voltage across the resistor is then measured by wired voltmeter and by virtual voltmeter. When the circuit is set to be 10 V based on measurement of the wired voltmeter, the panel meter displays 7 V, the wired voltmeter displays 10 V, and the virtual voltmeter displays 10.1 V.

The analysis question states "Based on your collected data, which of the voltmeters (power supply panel meter, wired voltmeter or virtual voltmeter) offered the most accurate reading? Explain your answer." But given that the standard of measure is the wired voltmeter, wouldn't it be the most accurate regardless. Also, why is the power supply 3 V lower? Any explanation to the original question or response to my confusion would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1