PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Measurements and their errors · Measurements and their errors
Problem
During an experiment on a stretched spring, the following data are obtained:
• The distance along the spring from the first crest to the ninth crest is 20.0 cm. Each position measurement has an uncertainty of ±0.1 cm.
• The time taken for 25 complete oscillations of a point on the spring is 3.00 s, measured with a stopwatch that has an uncertainty of ±0.05 s.
(i) Calculate the wavelength of the wave and its absolute uncertainty.
(ii) Calculate the period of oscillation and its absolute uncertainty.
(iii) Using your results, determine the wave speed and the percentage uncertainty in this speed.
(iv) Suggest one improvement in the experimental design that would reduce the uncertainty in the final value of the wave speed.