Measurement Techniques in Physics

0.01 mm

0.01 mm

0.1 mm

<p>Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the actual or true value of a quantity. Precision refers to how close repeated measurements are to each other, regardless of whether they are close to the true value. In other words, accuracy is about the correctness of a measurement, while precision is about the consistency or reproducibility of the measurement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A Vernier scale is used to measure the small distances and lengths with high accuracy. Vernier scale is used for measuring the length of an object by magnifying the graduations of the main scale, enabling us to read the minor divisions with greater precision. It allows for more precise measurements in applications like caliper and micrometer screw gauges, compared to using a standard ruler.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To ensure that the measurement is as accurate as possible. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>When quantities are multiplied or divided, add the percentage uncertainties to find the overall uncertainty in the result. For example, if you are calculating the area of a rectangle and you know the length and width with their uncertainties, you would add the percentage uncertainties in the length and width to find the percentage uncertainty in the area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>When a value is raised to a power, multiply the percentage uncertainty by the power to obtain the overall percentage uncertainty. For instance, if you are calculating the volume of a sphere, which is proportional to the cube of the radius, you would multiply the percentage uncertainty in the radius by three to find the percentage uncertainty in the volume.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The actual error is the maximum uncertainty in a measurement and is typically expressed to one significant figure. The number of decimal places used for a quantity in a calculated result should match the number of decimal places in the actual error. For example, if the actual error is ±0.1 mm, the result should be given to one decimal place.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To minimize random errors, you need to repeat the measurements multiple times and then take the average of all the readings. Repeating measurements helps to average out the random fluctuations in the readings. Additionally, you can use more precise measuring instruments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It is generally recommended to take at least three readings in an experiment to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. Taking multiple readings helps to minimize systematic errors and random errors in measurements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>An example of a systematic error could be an improperly calibrated scale. If the scale is consistently reading 0.2 cm too high, then every measurement taken using that scale will be off by 0.2 cm. This error would apply to all measurements, introducing a consistent bias.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>One example of a random error is the slight variability in how you read a scale. When reading a scale, you might judge the position of the pointer slightly differently each time, leading to variations in readings. These variations are random and not systematic.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A tool for measuring objects up to 0.1 mm.

A consistent error in measurement, always in the same direction.

Inaccurate measurements due to inconsistent factors.

How close a measured value is to the true value.

How consistent repeated measurements are.

The possible error in a measurement.

The ratio of absolute uncertainty to the measured value.

Fractional uncertainty expressed as a percentage.

How errors in different measurements combine.

Add the absolute uncertainties.

Add the percentage uncertainties.

Multiply the percentage uncertainty by the power.

Used to report measured values. Important for calculations.

Typical uncertainty for a ruler is ±0.1 cm.

Typical uncertainty for a protractor is ± 2°.

Uncertainty calculated as half the difference between maximum and minimum readings.

Uncertainty for an ammeter is usually ±0.05 A.

Techniques for minimizing errors in physical experiments.

Identifying and evaluating instrumental limitations.

Techniques including plotting graphs to identify trends.