Physics 5054 · O Level · Physical quantities and measurement techniques

Physical quantities and measurement techniques — practice question

A student is working out the thickness of the glass in a test-tube.
(a)[1]

The student uses a ruler and two rectangular wooden blocks to help him measure the external diameter $D$ of the test-tube. Describe, with the help of a diagram, how the student obtains an accurate value for $D$.

(b)[1]

Find the height $h$ of the water in the full size test-tube in Fig. 1.1. Enter $h$ in centimetres, rounded to the nearest millimetre, in the second row of Table 1.1.

(c(i))[1]

Enter $V_R$ in Table 1.1.

(c(ii))[1]

Calculate the volume $V$ of water in the test-tube. Put your answer into Table 1.1.

(d)[3]

On the grid given, plot a graph of $V$ against $h$, with $V$ on the y-axis and $h$ on the x-axis. Begin both axes at the origin $(0,0)$. Then draw the best-fit straight line.

(e(i))[2]

Calculate the gradient $m$ of your line. Show every step of your working and indicate on the graph the values you use.

(e(ii))[1]

If the test-tube is a perfect cylinder, then the internal diameter $d$ is found from $d = \sqrt{\frac{4m}{\pi}}$. Use your value of $m$ from (e)(i) together with the equation to calculate $d$.

(f(i))[2]

State one difficulty in measuring the height $h$ of the water in the test-tube and suggest how that difficulty can be overcome.

(f(ii))[1]

Give another reason why your calculated value for $d$ is only approximate.

(g(i))[1]

Measure the external diameter $D$ of the full size test-tube in Fig. 1.1. Record $D$ in centimetres to the nearest millimetre.

(g(ii))[1]

Use your answers for (e)(ii) and (g)(i) to calculate the thickness of the glass in the test-tube.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Test-tube shown in the correct orientation between the blocks and touching them

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