Limits Flashcards
(35 cards)
Describe the general tips for recording measurements in physics practicals.
Use a wide spread of measurements if a range is given, record all intermediary steps, and label columns with the symbol and unit.
Explain how to use a micrometer screw gauge.
Place the object between the anvil and spindle, rotate the thimble until the object is firmly held, and add the main scale and rotating scale values.
Define the components of a micrometer screw gauge.
The components include the sleeve, thimble, ratchet, frames, and scales (light scale in mm).
How does a vernier scale measure objects?
Place the object on the rule, align the sliding scale with the object’s edge, match divisions on the sliding scale with the rule, and subtract the sliding scale value from the rule value.
Differentiate between systematic and random errors in measurements.
Systematic errors are constant biases that are always too high or too low, while random errors scatter around the true value.
What is the measurement precision of a micrometer screw gauge?
A micrometer screw gauge measures objects up to 0.01 mm.
What is the measurement precision of a vernier scale?
A vernier scale measures objects up to 0.1 mm.
List the steps involved in using a vernier scale.
- Place the object on the rule.
- Align the sliding scale with the object’s edge.
- Match divisions on the sliding scale with the rule.
- Subtract the sliding scale value from the rule value.
Explain the importance of labeling columns in measurement tables.
Labeling columns with the symbol and unit ensures clarity and helps in understanding the data recorded.
Describe the process of recording intermediary steps in measurements.
Recording intermediary steps involves documenting all calculations and values used to arrive at the final measurement, such as individual lengths in a subtraction operation.
Describe absolute uncertainty and provide an example.
Absolute uncertainty is the uncertainty of a measurement expressed as a fixed quantity, such as ∆x=±0.1 cm
Explain how to combine errors in addition and subtraction.
In addition and subtraction, combine errors by adding the absolute errors of the quantities involved.
Define fractional uncertainty and its formula.
Fractional uncertainty is the ratio of the absolute uncertainty to the measured value, expressed as ( rac{Delta x}{x} ).
How is percentage uncertainty calculated?
Percentage uncertainty is calculated using the formula ( rac
Explain how to combine errors in multiplication and division.
In multiplication and division, combine errors by adding the percentage errors of the quantities involved.
Describe how to handle errors when raising a quantity to a power.
When raising a quantity to a power, multiply the percentage error by the power. For example, for ( y^3 ), the percentage error is multiplied by 3.
List the uncertainty for a ruler and a protractor.
The uncertainty for a ruler is 0.1 cm, and for a protractor, it is 2°.
Explain the significance of significant figures in measurements.
Significant figures indicate the precision of a measurement, and actual error should be recorded to 1 significant figure.
How should decimal places be matched in calculated quantities?
Decimal places in calculated quantities should match the precision of the measured value.
Identify a common error in water-related experiments and suggest an improvement.
A common error is difficulty seeing the water surface due to refraction. An improvement is to use colored liquid.
Describe a common issue in oscillation experiments.
A common issue in oscillation experiments is that the time period may be too short.
What is the effect of repeating measurements on precision?
Repeating measurements can improve precision by reducing random errors.
Describe an improvement for motion experiments.
Use motion sensors or slow-motion video.
Explain how to reduce friction at a pivot in experiments.
Use bearings or a larger hole.
