Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Errors and uncertainties

Errors and uncertainties — practice question

(a)[2]

In Fig. 1.1, the boxes show terms on the left and examples of those terms on the right. Draw a line from each left-hand term to the matching example on the right.

(b(i))[1]

A set of experimental measurements is described as precise and not accurate. State what is meant by precise.

(b(ii))[1]

A set of experimental measurements is described as precise and not accurate. State what is meant by not accurate.

(c(i))[2]

An object of mass $m$ moves with speed $v$ in a circle of radius $r$. The force $F$ on the object is given by $F = \frac{mv^2}{r}$. The percentage uncertainties of three of the quantities are given. The value of $v$ is found from $F$, $m$ and $r$. Calculate the percentage uncertainty in $v$.

(c(ii))[1]

The value of $v$ is $15.0\,\text{m s}^{-1}$. Calculate the absolute uncertainty in $v$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Pairs base quantity, base unit, derived quantity and derived unit correctly (e.g. base quantity - current, base unit - coulomb, derived quantity - force, derived unit - kilogram). Any two linked correctly.

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