WPH13Topic 3.12 questions
Choosing and reading instruments, significant figures, and estimating uncertainty in single and repeated readings.
Identify the range and resolution of measuring instruments, including Vernier calipers (0.1 mm) and micrometer screw gauge (0.01 mm)
Discuss calibration of instruments, e.g. whether a meter reads zero before measurements are made
Comment on the number of readings taken and the range of measurements taken
Comment on significant figures, e.g. write down a micrometer reading of a wire's diameter to the correct number of significant figures
Check a reading that is inconsistent with other readings, e.g. a point that is not on the line of a graph
Discuss uncertainties, qualitatively and quantitatively
Determine the percentage uncertainty in measurements for a single reading using half the resolution of the instrument and from multiple readings using the half range (compounding percentage uncertainties is not required at IAS)
Get a plain-language explanation, a worked example and the usual mistake.
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Original practice questions written in the style of the exam.
A student measures the length of a pendulum several times with a metre rule. She forgets to check that the zero mark of the rule is at the very end, and the rule is worn, so every reading is too long.
(a) State the type of error this causes and how it affects the readings.
(b) Explain the difference between accuracy and precision.