The percentage error in the distance $ 100 \pm 5 $ cm is ....
The percentage error is calculated using the formula: \[ \text{Percentage Error} = \left( \frac{\text{Absolute Error}}{\text{Measured Value}} \right) \times 100 \\] Given the distance is \( 100 \pm 5 \) cm: \[ \text{Percentage Error} = \left( \frac{5}{100} \right) \times 100 = 5\% \\] So, the correct option is \( 5\% \).