+-

Measurements.

Errors and
Uncertainties

By Yasir Naseer.

Candidates should be able to:

(a) use techniques for the measurement of length,
volume, angle, mass, time, temperature and
electrical quantities appropriate to the ranges of
magnitude implied by the relevant parts of the
syllabus.

(b) Use both analogue scales and digital displays

(c) use calibration curves

(d) show an understanding of the distinction

between systematic errors
(including zero errors) and random errors

(e) show an understanding of the distinction

between precision and accuracy
(f) assess the uncertainty in a derived quantity
by simple addition of
actual, fractional or percentage uncertainties
(a rigorous statistical
treatment is not required).
Page 2
***This assignment consists of ______ Sections.

Section 1. (Systematic & Random Errors)

Q-1 The measurement of a physical quantity may be subject to random errors and to systematic errors. Which
statement is correct?

A Random errors can be reduced by taking the average of several measurements.

B Random errors are always caused by the person taking the measurement.

C A systematic error cannot be reduced by adjusting the apparatus.

D A systematic error results in a different reading each time the measurement is taken.

Q-2 A student carried out an experiment in which an electric current was known to decrease with time. The readings
he found, from first to last, were 3.62 mA, 2.81 mA, 1.13 mA, 1.76 mA and 0.90 mA.
Which statement could not explain the anomalous 1.13 mA reading? (Summer 13)

A He has reversed the third and fourth readings in the results table.

B He read the ammeter incorrectly; the reading should have been 2.13 mA.

C He took the current reading at the wrong time.

D There was a systematic error in the readings from the ammeter.

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Q-3 The speedometer in a car consists of a pointer which rotates. The pointer is situated several milli-metres from a
calibrated scale. What could cause a random error in the driver’s measurement of the car’s speed?
(Winter
11)
A The car’s speed is affected by the wind direction.
B The driver’s eye is not always in the same position in relation to the pointer.
C The speedometer does not read zero when the car is at rest.
D The speedometer reads 10 % higher than the car’s actual speed.

Q-4 A quantity X is measured many times. A graph is plotted showing the number n of times a particular value of is
obtained. X has a true value X 0. Which graph could be obtained if the measurement of X has a large systematic
error but a small random error?

Q-5 The measurement of a physical quantity may be subject to random errors and to systematic errors. Which
statement is correct?
A Random errors can be reduced by taking the average of several measurements.
B Random errors are always caused by the person taking the measurement.
C A systematic error cannot be reduced.
D A systematic error results in a different reading each time the measurement is taken.

Q-6 What will reduce the systematic errors when taking a measurement? (Winter 12)

A adjusting the needle on a voltmeter so that it reads zero when there is no potential difference
across it
B measuring the diameter of a wire at different points and taking the average

C reducing the parallax effects by using a marker and a mirror when measuring the amplitude
of oscillation of a pendulum

D timing 20 oscillations, rather than a single oscillation, when finding the period of a pendulum

Q-7 A student measures the time t for a ball to fall from rest through a vertical distance h. Knowing that the equation
h = gt 2
/2
applies, the student plots the graph shown.
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Which of the following is an explanation for the intercept on the t axis?

 A Air resistance has not been taken into account for larger values of h.

B There is a constant delay between starting the timer and releasing the ball.

C There is an error in the timer that consistently makes it run fast.

D The student should have plotted h against t 2.

Q-8 A student takes measurements of the current in a resistor of constant resistance and the potential difference (p.d.)
across it. The readings are then used to plot a graph of current against p.d. There is a systematic error in the
current readings. (Summer 13)
How could this be identified from the graph?

A At least one anomalous data point can be identified.

B The data points are scattered about the straight line of best fit.

C The graph is a curve, not a straight line.

D The straight line graph does not pass through the origin.

**Q-9 Variables x and y are related by the equation Winter 15

y = p – qx
where p and q are constants. Values of x and y are measured experimentally. The results contain a systematic
error. Which graph best represents these results?

Q-10 In an experiment to measure the viscosity of motor oil a ball bearing is dropped into a long measuring
cylinder full of the oil. The student needs to time how long the ball bearing takes to fall a set distance.
Which of the following would improve the accuracy of the measurements?

1- repeating the readings and calculating an average

2- ensuring that readings are taken at eye level
3- using a measuring cylinder with a smaller cross-sectional area

A 1 only B 1 and 2 only C 2 and 3 only D 1, 2 and 3

Q-11 A mass is dropped from rest, and falls through a distance of 2.0 m in a vacuum. An observer records the time
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taken for the mass to fall through this distance using a manually operated stopwatch and repeats the measurements
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 a further two times. The average result of these measured times, displayed in the table below, was used to
determine a value for the acceleration of free fall. This was calculated to be 9.8 m s –2.

Which statement best relates to the experiment? (Summer-12)

A The measurements are precise and accurate with no evidence of random errors.

B The measurements are not accurate and not always recorded to the degree of precision of
the measuring device but the calculated experimental result is accurate.

C The measurements are not always recorded to the degree of precision of the measuring
device but are accurate. Systematic errors may be present.

D The range of results shows that there were random errors made but the calculated value is
correct so the experiment was successful.

Q-12 In an experiment to measure the acceleration of free fall, g, a table tennis ball is dropped
from a measured height. The time it takes to reach the ground is measured using a stop
watch. The experiment is repeated.
(a) The measured times are:
0.95 s, 0.96 s, 0.99 s
Which of the following should be stated as the average result?
A 0.96 s B 0.966 s C 0.967 s D 0.97 s

****Q- 13 (a) Distinguish between systematic errors and random errors.

9702/02/O/N/07
systematic errors
....................................................................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................................................................

random errors
……………............................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

Q-14 A metal wire has a cross-section of diameter approximately 0.8 mm.

(a) State what instrument should be used to measure the diameter of the wire.
.
.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) State how the instrument in (a) is
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(i) checked so as to avoid a systematic error in the measurements,

........................................................................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) used so as to reduce random errors.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................................ [2]

Q-15 A student has been asked to determine the linear acceleration of a toy car as it moves down a slope. He sets up the
apparatus as shown in Fig. 16.1. Q-3/9702/02/M/J/04

Fig. 16.1
The time t to move from rest through a distance d is found for different values of d. A graph of
d (y-axis) is plotted against t 2 (x-axis) as shown in Fig. 16.2.

(a) Theory suggests that the graph is a straight line through the origin.
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Name the feature on Fig. 15.2 that indicates the presence of

(i) random error,
..................................................................................................................................
(ii) systematic error.

.................................................................................................................................. [2]
(b) (i) Determine the gradient of the line of the graph in Fig. 15.2.

gradient = ........................................... [2]

(ii) Use your answer to (i) to calculate the acceleration of the toy down the slope. Explain your working.

acceleration = ........................................ ms –2 [3]

Section 2. (Precision & Accuracy)

Q-1 A student carries out a series of determinations of the acceleration of free fall g. The table shows the results.

What can be said about this experiment?

A It is accurate and precise. B It is accurate but not precise.
C It is not accurate and not precise. D It is not accurate but is precise.

Q-2 Four students each made a series of measurements of the acceleration of free fall g. The table shows the results
obtained. Which set of results could be described as precise but not accurate?
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Q-3 Four different students use a ruler to measure the length of a 15.0 cm pencil. Their measurements
are recorded on four different charts. Which chart shows measurements that are precise but not accurate?
Summer 15(13)

Q-4 A student uses a micrometer screw gauge to measure the diameter of a wire. He fails to notice that, with the
gauge fully closed, the reading is not zero. (Summer 02)

(a) State and explain whether the omission introduces a random error or a systematic error into the readings of the
diameter.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

…………………………………………………………………………............................................................................[2]

(b) Explain why the readings are precise but not accurate.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................................................. [2]

Q-5 (a) For each of the following, tick [✓] one box to indicate whether the experimental technique
would reduce random error, systematic error or neither. The first row has been completed
as an example.

9702/23/M/J/11
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(b) The measurement of a particular time interval is repeated many times. The readings are found to vary. The results
are shown in Fig.4.1.

The true value of the time interval is 10.1 s.

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(i) State how the readings on Fig. 4.1 show the presence of

1. a systematic error,

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................................. [1]

2. a random error.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) State the expected changes to Fig. 1.1 for experimental measurements that are
1. more accurate,

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................................. [1]
2. more precise.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................................................. [1]

Section 3. (Uncertainties)
Q-1 A thermometer can be read to an accuracy of ± 0.5 °C. This thermometer is used to measure a temperature rise
from 40 °C to 100 °C. What is the percentage uncertainty in the measurement of the temperature rise?

A 0.5 % B 0.8 % C 1.3 % D 1.7%

**Q-2 The diagram shows the stem of a Celsius thermometer, marked to show initial and final temperature values.

(Summer 13)

What is the temperature change expressed to an appropriate number of significant figures?

11

A 14 °C B 20.5 °C
C 21 °C D 22.0 °C
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Q-3 The diagram shows part of a thermometer. What is the correct reading on the thermometer and the uncertainty in
this reading? Winter 14

Q-4 A micrometer is used to measure the diameters of two cylinders. (Winter 11)

diameter of first cylinder = 12.78 + 0.02 mm

diameter of second cylinder = 16.24 + 0.03 mm

The difference in the diameters is calculated. What is the uncertainty in this difference?

A + 0.01 mm B + 0.02 mm

C + 0.03 mm D + 0.05 mm

Q-5 A student wishes to determine the density ρ of lead. She measures the mass and diameter of a
small sphere of lead:

mass = (0.506 + 0.005) g diameter = (2.20 + 0.02) mm.

What is the best estimate of the percentage uncertainty in her value of ρ ? (Winter 13)

A 1.9% B 2.0%

C 2.8% D 3.7%

Q-6 The speed of a car is calculated from measurements of the distance travelled and the time taken. The distance is
measured as 200 m, with an uncertainty of ± 2 m. The time is measured as 10.0 s, with an uncertainty of ± 0.2 s.
What is the percentage uncertainty in the calculated speed? (Winter 12)

A ± 0.5 % B ±1%
C ±2% D ±3%

Q-7 An experiment is done to measure the resistance of a wire. The current in the wire is 1.0 ± 0.2 A and the potential
difference across the wire is 8.0 ± 0.4 V. What is the resistance of the wire and its uncertainty?

A (8.0 ± 0.2) Ω

B (8.0 ± 0.6) Ω

C (8 ± 1) Ω
12

D (8 ± 2) Ω
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Q-8 The resistance R of an unknown resistor is found by measuring the potential difference V across the resistor and

/
the current I through it and using the equation R = V I . The voltmeter reading has a 3 % uncertainty and the
ammeter reading has a 2 % uncertainty. What is the uncertainty in the calculated resistance?

A 1.5 % B 3% C 5% D 6%

Q-9 In a simple electrical circuit, the current in a resistor is measured as (2.50 ± 0.05) mA. The resistor is marked as
having a value of 4.7 Ω ± 2 %. If these values were used to calculate the power dissipated in the resistor, what
would be the percentage uncertainty in the value obtained?

A 2% B 4% C 6% D 8%

Q-10 The values measured are V = 1.00 ± 0.05 V and I = 0.50 ± 0.01 A. What is the percentage uncertainty in the
value of R ?

A 2.5 %

B 3.0 %

C 7.0 %

D 10.0 %

2
Q-11 The power loss P in a resistor is calculated using the formula P = V /R. The uncertainty in the potential
difference V is 3% and the uncertainty in the resistance R is 2%. What is the uncertainty in P?

A 4%
B 7%
C 8%
D 11%

Q-12 A mass m has acceleration a. It moves through a distance s in time t. The power used in accelerating the mass is
equal to the product of force and velocity. The percentage uncertainties are
0.1 % in m, 1 % in a, 1.5 % in s, 0.5 % in t.
What is the percentage uncertainty in the average power?

A 2.1 %
B 2.6 %
C 3.1 %
D 4.1 %

Q-13 In an experiment to determine the acceleration of free fall g, the period of oscillation T and length
l of a simple pendulum were measured. The uncertainty in the measurement of l is estimated to
be 4%, and the uncertainty in the measurement of T is estimated to be 1%.
The value of g is determined using the formula
13

.
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What is the uncertainty in the calculated value for g ?

 A 2% B 3% C 5% D 6%

Q-14 In an experiment to determine the acceleration of free fall g, the time t taken for a ball to fall
through distance s was measured. The uncertainty in the measurement of s is estimated to
be 2 %. The uncertainty in the measurement of t is estimated to be 3 %. The value of g is determined using the
equation

(winter 12)
What is the uncertainty in the calculated value of g?

A 1% B 5% C 8% D 11 %

Q-15 A student wishes to determine the density ρ of lead. She measures the mass and diameter of a small sphere of
lead:

mass = (0.506 + 0.005) g diameter = (2.20 + 0.02) mm.

What is the best estimate of the percentage uncertainty in her value of ρ ?

A 1.9%

B 2.0%

C 2.8%

D 3.7%

*Q-16 The Young modulus of the material of a wire is to be found. The Young modulus E is given by the
equation below.

The wire is extended by a known force and the following measurements are made. Which measurement has the
largest effect on the uncertainty in the value of the calculated Young modulus?

Q-17 A student uses a digital ammeter to measure a current. The reading of the ammeter is found to fluctuate between
1.98 A and 2.02 A. The manufacturer of the ammeter states that any reading has a systematic uncertainty of
± 1 %. Which value of current should be quoted by the student?
14

A (2.00 ± 0.01) A B (2.00 ± 0.02) A

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C (2.00 ± 0.03) A D (2.00 ± 0.04) A

Q-18 In an experiment, a radio-controlled car takes 2.50 ± 0.05 s to travel 40.0 ± 0.1 m. What is the car’s average
speed and the uncertainty in this value?

A 16 ± 1 m s–1 B 16.0 ± 0.2 m s–1

C 16.0 ± 0.4 m s–1 D 16.00 ± 0.36 m s–1

Q-19 A student carried out an experiment in which an electric current was known to decrease with
time. The readings he found, from first to last, were 3.62 mA, 2.81 mA, 1.13 mA, 1.76 mA and
0.90 mA. Which statement could not explain the anomalous 1.13 mA reading?

A He has reversed the third and fourth readings in the results table.
B He read the ammeter incorrectly; the reading should have been 2.13 mA.
C He took the current reading at the wrong time.
D There was a systematic error in the readings from the ammeter.

Q-20 A quantity X varies with temperature θ as shown. θ is determined from the corresponding values of X by using
this graph. X is measured with a percentage uncertainty of +1 % of its value at all temperatures. Which
statement about the uncertainty in θ is correct?

A The percentage uncertainty in θ is least near 0 °C.

B The percentage uncertainty in θ is least near 100 °C.

C The actual uncertainty in θ is least near 0 °C.

D The actual uncertainty in θ is least near 100 °C.

Q-21 A micrometer screw gauge is used to measure the diameter of a small uniform steel sphere. The micrometer
reading is 5.00 mm + 0.01 mm. What will be the percentage uncertainty in a calculation of the volume of the
sphere, using these values? ( Winter 13)

A 0.2% B 0.4% C 0.6% D 1.2%

*Q-22 A voltmeter is specified as being accurate to within 2%. The reading on the voltmeter is 3.50 V.
The maximum voltage represented by this reading is

A 3.52 V B 3.57 V C 3.70 V D 7.00 V

Q-23. (a) A student is asked to determine the density of a wooden metre rule. He is provided with

• vernier callipers, which measure to a precision of 0.01 cm

• an electronic balance which measures to a precision of 0.1 g.

15

The student records his measurements as follows:

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Length of rule l = 1 m Width of rule w = 2.54 cm

 Thickness of rule t = 6.1 mm Mass of rule M = 127.4 g

(i) Comment critically on these measurements.

....................................................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................................. (3)
(ii) Use this data to determine a value for the density of the rule.

Answer .................................... (2)

(b) An aluminium cooking foil manufacturer states that the thickness of the foil is 15 μm.
You have a micrometer which can read to a precision of 0.01 mm.

(i) Describe how you would try to find an accurate value for the thickness of a sheet of the foil.

....................................................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................ (2)
(ii) Estimate the percentage uncertainty of your value.

Answer ............................... %
(Total 8 marks)

*Q-24 A digital voltmeter with a three-digit display is used to measure the potential difference across a resistor. The
manufacturers of the meter state that its accuracy is ±1% and ±1 digit. The reading on the voltmeter is 2.05 V.
(a) For this reading, calculate, to the nearest digit,

(i) a change of 1% in the voltmeter reading,

change = ..............................................V [1]

(ii) the maximum possible value of the potential difference across the resistor.

maximum value = ..............................................V [1]

(b) The reading on the voltmeter has high precision. State and explain why the reading may not be accurate.
16

....................................................................................................................................................................................................
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............................................................................................................................................................................................. [2]
Q-25 A student uses a metre rule to measure the length of an elastic band before and after stretching it. The lengths are
recorded as

length of band before stretching, L0 = 50.0 ± 0.1 cm

length of band after stretching, LS = 51.6 ± 0.1 cm.
Determine
(a) the change in length (LS - L0), quoting your answer with its uncertainty,

(LS - L0) = ……………………………………… cm [1]

(b) the fractional change in length, ,

fractional change = ………………………………. [1]

(c) the uncertainty in your answer in (b).

uncertainty = ………………………………… [3]

Q 26 A student takes readings to measure the mean diameter of a wire using a micrometer screw gauge. Winter- 04

(a) Make suggestions, one in each case, that the student may adopt in order to

(i) reduce a systematic error in the readings,

....................................................................................................................................................................................................
(ii) allow for a wire of varying diameter along its length,

....................................................................................................................................................................................................
(iii) allow for a non-circular cross-section of the wire.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................................................................... [3]

(b) The mean diameter of the wire is found to be 0.50 ± 0.02 mm. Calculate the percentage uncertainty in
(i) the diameter,

uncertainty = …………………………………. %
(ii) the area of cross-section of the wire.
17

uncertainty = …………………………………. % [2]

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Q-27 (b) A cylinder of length L has a circular cross-section of radius R, as shown in Fig. 26.1. Winter -07

Fig. 27.1
The volume V of the cylinder is given by the expression
V = R 2 L .
The volume and length of the cylinder are measured as

V = 15.0 ± 0.5 cm3 L = 20.0 ± 0.1 cm.

Calculate the radius of the cylinder, with its uncertainty.

radius = ........................ ±........................ cm [5]

Q-28 A simple pendulum may be used to determine a value for the acceleration of free fall g. Measurements are made
of the length L of the pendulum and the period T of oscillation. The values obtained, with their uncertainties, are as
shown.
T = (1.93 ± 0.03) s (Winter 09)
L = (92 ± 1) cm
(a) Calculate the percentage uncertainty in the measurement of
(i) the period T,

uncertainty = ............................................ % [1]

(ii) the length L.

uncertainty = ............................................ % [1]

(b) The relationship between T, L and g is given by

Using your answers in (a), calculate the percentage uncertainty in the value of g.
18

uncertainty = ............................................ % [1]

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(c) The values of L and T are used to calculate a value of g as 9.751 m s–2.
(i) By reference to the measurements of L and T, suggest why it would not be correct to quote the value of g as 9.751 m s2.

......................................................................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) Use your answer in (b) to determine the absolute uncertainty in g. Hence state the value of g, with its uncertainty, to
an appropriate number of significant figures.

g = .......................... ± ........................ m s –2 [2]

Q- 29 The time T for a satellite to orbit the Earth is given by Q-2 Winter 13(23)

where R is the distance of the satellite from the centre of the Earth,M is the mass of the Earth, and K is a constant.
(a) Determine the SI base units of K.

SI base units of K ................................................ [2]

(b) Data for a particular satellite are given in Fig. 28.1.

Fig. 29.1
Calculate K and its actual uncertainty in SI units.

K = ....................................... ± .................................... SI units [4]

19

Q-30 The volume V of liquid flowing in time t through a pipe of radius r is given by the equation
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 where P is the pressure difference between the ends of the pipe of length l, and C depends on the frictional effects
of the liquid. An experiment is performed to determine C. The measurements made are shown in Fig. 29.1.

Q-1 Summer -12

(a) Calculate the value of C.

C = ..................................... N s m–2 [2]

(b) Calculate the uncertainty in C.

uncertainty = ..................................... N s m –2 [3]

(c) State the value of C and its uncertainty to the appropriate number of significant figures.

C = ........................................... ± ........................................... N s m –2 [1]

Section 4. (Calibrations)

Q-1
20
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 0

Q-2 The diagram shows the scale on a micro ammeter.

Which of the following is the correct reading

A 28 × 10–6 A B 28 × 10–3 A C 36 × 10–6 A D 36 × 10–3 A

Q-3

***Q-4 A student is given a reel of wire of diameter less than 0.2 mm and is asked to find the density of
the metal. Which pair of instruments would be most suitable for finding the volume of the wire?
21

(Winter 12)
A balance and micrometer
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 B metre rule and micrometer

C metre rule and vernier calipers

D micrometer and vernier calipers

Q-5

Q-6 The diagram shows a calibration curve for a thermistor, drawn with an unusual scale on the vertical axis.

What is the thermistor resistance corresponding to a temperature of 40 °C? (Summer 13)

A 130 Ω B 150 Ω C 400 Ω D 940 Ω

Q-7 An uncalibrated analogue voltmeter P is connected in parallel with another voltmeter Q which is
known to be accurately calibrated. For a range of values of potential difference (p.d.), readings
are taken from the two meters. The diagram shows the calibration graph obtained.
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 Winter 13
The graph shows that meter P has a zero error. This meter is now adjusted to remove this zero error. When the meter is
recalibrated, the gradient of the calibration graph is found to be unchanged. What is the new scale reading on meter P
when it is used to measure a p.d. of 5.0 V?

A 6.6 B 6.7 C 7.2 D 7.4

Q-8 The diameter of a cylindrical metal rod is measured using a micrometer screw gauge. The diagram below shows
an enlargement of the scale on the micrometer screw gauge when taking the measurement.

(Summer 12)

What is the cross-sectional area of the rod?

A 3.81 mm2 B 11.4 mm2

C 22.8 mm2 D 45.6 mm2

Q-9 A micrometer screw gauge is used to measure the diameter of a copper wire. The reading with the wire in
position is shown in diagram 1. The wire is removed and the jaws of the micrometer are closed. The new reading
is shown in diagram 2.
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Page 24
Q-10 An analogue ammeter has a pointer which moves over a scale. Following prolonged use, the pointer does not
return fully to zero when the current is turned off and the meter has become lesser sitive at higher currents than it
is at lower currents. Which diagram best represents the calibration graph needed to obtain an accurate current
reading? Summer 15

Q-11 The angular deflection of the needle of an

ammeter varies with the current in the ammeter
as shown in the graph.
Which diagram could represent the appearance
of the scale on this meter?

Summer 15

Q-12 In the circuit shown, an analogue ammeter is to be recalibrated as a thermometer. The graph shows how the
25

resistance R of the thermistor changes with temperature T.

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 Winter 14

Which diagram could represent the temperature scale on the ammeter?

Q-13 A calibration graph is shown for an ammeter whose scale is inaccurate. Two readings taken on the meter at
different times during an experiment are 0.13 mA and 0.47 mA.
By how much did the current really increase between taking the two readings?

A 0.30 mA

B 0.35 mA

C 0.40 mA

D 0.44 mA

Q-14 The volume of fuel in the tank of a car is monitored using a meter as illustrated in Fig. 1.1. The meter has an
analogue scale. The meter reading for different volumes of fuel in the tank is shown in Fig. 1.2. Winter09
26
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The meter is calibrated in terms of the fraction of the tank that remains filled with fuel.
(a) The car uses 1.0 litre of fuel when travelling 14 km. The car starts a journey with a full tank of fuel.
(i) Calculate the volume of fuel remaining in the tank after a journey of 210 km.

volume = ...................................... litres [2]

(ii) Use your answer to (i) and Fig. 1.2 to determine the change in the meter reading during the 210 km journey.

from full to ............................................... [1]

(b) There is a systematic error in the meter.
(i) State the feature of Fig. 1.2 that indicates that there is a systematic error.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................................ [1]
(ii) Suggest why, for this meter, it is an advantage to have this systematic error.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................... [1]

Q-15 The uncalibrated scale and the pointer of a meter are shown in Fig. 39.1. The pointer is shown in the zero
position. The meter is to be used to indicate the volume of fuel in the tank of a car. A known volume V of fuel is
poured into the tank and the deflection of the pointer is noted. Summer 07
27
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 Fig. 11.1
Fig. 11.2 shows the variation with of V.

(a) On Fig. 15.1,

(i) calibrate the scale at 20 × 103 cm3 intervals, [2]

(ii) mark a possible position for a volume of 1.0 × 105 cm3. [1]

(b) Suggest one advantage of this scale, as compared with a uniform scale, for measuring fuel volumes in the tank of
the car.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................................................ .[1]
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Section 5. (C.R.O)
 The cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.)

Q-1 The cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.) display shows the waveform produced by an electronic circuit. The c.r.o.
time-base is set at 10 ms per division. What is the period of the signal shown?

A 20 ms B 30 ms C 40 ms D 80 ms

Q-2 A cathode-ray oscilloscope displays a square wave, as shown in the diagram. The time-base setting is 0.20 ms per
29

division.
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 What is the frequency of the square wave?

A 8.3 Hz B 830 Hz C 1300 Hz D 1700 Hz

Q-3 The diagram shows two pulses on the screen of a cathode ray oscilloscope. A grid of 1 cm squares covers the
screen. The time base setting is 1 μs / cm.

How long does each pulse last?

A 2 μs B 3 μs C 4 μs D 6 μs
Q-4 The time-base on a cathode-ray oscilloscope is set at 6 ms / cm. A trace consisting of two pulses is recorded as
shown in the diagram.

What is the time interval between the two pulses?

A 0.42 ms B 0.75 ms C 1.33 ms D 27 ms
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Q-5 When a 12 V- 50 Hz supply is connected to the Y-terminals of an oscilloscope, the trace in the diagram is
obtained.
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 What is the setting of the time-base control?

A 2.0 ms cm–1 B 2.5 ms cm–1 C 5 ms cm–1 D 20 ms cm–1

Q-6 An oscilloscope display consists of two separate traces, a waveform and a long horizontal line. The horizontal
line may be taken as the zero level. The grid on the screen is calibrated in cm squares, the time base setting is 2.5
ms cm–1, and the Y-sensitivity is 5 mV cm–1. What are the period and the peak positive voltage of the waveform in
the diagram?

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Q-7 A signal that repeats periodically is displayed on the screen of a cathode-ray oscilloscope. The screen has 1 cm
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squares and the time base is set at 2.00 ms cm –1.

 Winter 13
What is the frequency of this periodic signal?

A 50 Hz B 100 Hz C 125 Hz D 200 Hz

Q-8 The following trace is seen on the screen of a cathode-ray oscilloscope. The setting of the time base is then
changed from 10 ms cm–1 to 20 ms cm–1and the Y-sensitivity is unaltered.

Which trace is now seen on the screen?

Q-9 The Y-input terminals of a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.) are connected to a supply of peak value 5.0 V and of
frequency 50 Hz. The time-base is set at 10 ms per division and the Y-gain at 5.0 V per division. Which trace is
obtained?

32

Q-10 The diagram shows an oscilloscope screen displaying two signals. Signal X has a frequency of 50 Hz and peak
voltage of 12 V. What is the period and peak voltage of signal Y?
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Q-11 The diagram shows a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.) being used to measure the rate of rotation of a flywheel.

The flywheel has a small magnet M mounted on it. Each time the magnet passes the coil, a voltage pulse is generated,
which is passed to the c.r.o. The display of the c.r.o. is 10 cm wide. The flywheel is rotating at a rate of about 3000
revolutions per minute. Which time-base setting will display clearly separate pulses on the screen?

A 1 s cm–1 B 10 ms cm–1 C 100 μs cm–1 D 1 μs cm-1

Q-12 The diagram shows the screen of a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.) displaying a wave.
The time-base of the c.r.o. is set at 10 ms / division.

Summer 18 -12
What is the frequency of the wave?

A 0.24 Hz B 4.2 Hz C 12 Hz D 24 Hz

Q-12 A source of radio waves sends a pulse towards a reflector. The pulse returns from the reflector and is detected at
the same point as the source. The emitted and reflected pulses are recorded on a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.)
as shown in Fig.12.1. Q-2/9702/21/O/N/13
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 Fig. 12.1
The time-base setting is 0.20 s cm . –1

(a) Using Fig. 12.1, determine the distance between the source and the reflector.

distance = ............................................. m [4]

(b) Determine the time-base setting required to produce the same separation of pulses on the c.r.o. when sound
waves are used instead of radio waves. The speed of sound is 300 m s –1.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................ [3]
Q-13 A loudspeaker produces a sound wave of constant frequency. Outline how a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.) may be
used to determine this frequency.

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................................................
34

........................................................................................................................................................................................
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.......................................................................................................................................................................................... [4]
Q-14 A microphone detects a musical note of frequency f. The microphone is connected to a cathode- ray oscilloscope
(c.r.o.). The signal from the microphone is observed on the c.r.o. as illustrated in Fig. 2

Q-2 Winter 14(23)

The time-base setting of the c.r.o. is 0.50 ms cm–1. The Y-plate setting is 2.5 mV cm–1.
(a) Use Fig. 2.1 to determine (i) the amplitude of the signal,

amplitude = ................................................... mV [2]

(ii) the frequency f,
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 f = .................................................... Hz [3]
(iii) the actual uncertainty in f caused by reading the scale on the c.r.o.

actual uncertainty = .................................................... Hz [2]

(b) State f with its actual uncertainty. f = ................................ ± ................................ Hz [1]

Q-15 The signal from a microwave detector is recorded on a cathode-ray oscilloscope (c.r.o.), as shown
in Figure below.

The time-base setting on the c.r.o. is 50 ps cm–1. Q-2 winter 15 /21

(a) Using Figure above, determine the wavelength of the microwaves.

wavelength = ........................................................ m [4]

(b) The signal from a radio wave detector is recorded on the same c.r.o. The wavelength of the radio
waves is 1.5 × 103 m. Determine the time-base setting required to display the same number of
oscillations on the c.r.o. as shown in on last page.
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 time-base setting = ....................................... unit........................ [2]

Revision

Q -1 (a) State the most appropriate instrument, or instruments, for the measurement of the following. Winter 09

(i) the diameter of a wire of diameter about 1 mm

............................................................................................................................ [1]
(ii) the resistance of a filament lamp

............................................................................................................................ [1]
(iii) the peak value of an alternating voltage
............................................................................................................................ [1]

(b) The mass of a cube of aluminium is found to be 580 g with an uncertainty in the measurement of 10 g. Each side of
the cube has a length of (6.0 +0.1) cm. Calculate the density of aluminium with its uncertainty. Express your answer to an
appropriate number of significant figures.
Summer 09

density = ................ +................ g cm–3 [5]

Q-2 A student is taking measurements from a piece of wire.
(a) She measures the diameter d using a micrometer. She obtains the following readings.

(i) Explain how you would use her readings to obtain the most accurate mean value for the diameter of the wire.
(1)
........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

(ii) Use her readings to obtain the most accurate mean value for the diameter of the wire. (1)

Wire diameter = ..............................................................................................................

(iii) Estimate the percentage uncertainty in your value for the diameter of the wire. (2)

Percentage uncertainty = .............................................................................................................

(b) She then makes the following measurements.
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length of wire = 663 mm mass of wire = 0.32 g

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(i) Use her measurements to calculate the volume of the wire. (2)
 Volume = ..............................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the density of the material of the wire. (2)

Density = ..............................................................................................................
(c) The tables below are taken from a data book.

Use the information in the tables to identify the material of the wire and its standard thickness. (2)

Material of wire is .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Standard thickness of wire is .................................................................................................................................................................................................. (10 marks)

Q-3. A student checks the diameter of a ball bearing to verify the manufacturer’s value. He records the
following values:
5.1mm, 5.0mm, 5.0mm
(i) the average value should be recorded as

A 5.0 mm B 5.03 mm
C 5.033 mm D 5.1 mm
(ii) The manufacturer’s value for the diameter is 5.4 mm. This suggests

A the student carrying out these measurements made random errors

B the equipment used had a systematic error
C the student needed to take more measurements with the same piece of equipment
D the equipment was not able to read better than 0.1 mm
(Total 2 marks)

Q-4 In an experiment to measure viscosity of oil, ball bearings are dropped into a long measuring cylinder
full of oil.
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(a) For one ball bearing, three measurements of its ball diameter are:

2.55 mm, 2.56 mm, 2.59 mm

Which of the following should be stated as the average result? (1)
A 2.56 mm B 2.566 mm
C 2.567 mm D 2.57 mm
(b) Which of the following should be used to measure the diameter of the ball bearings? (1)

A metre rule B micrometer

C scale on the measuring cylinder D tape measure
(c) Which of the following would minimise parallax error when timing the ball bearing as it falls through a
fixed distance in the oil? (1)

A Ensure that the observer is at eye level with the ball bearing.
B Use a metre rule rather than the scale on the measuring cylinder.
C Use two parallel rubber bands around the measuring cylinder to indicate the fixed distance.
D Start and stop the clock as the middle of the ball bearing passes through the
start and finish points.

Answers.
Section 1

Q-1 A Q-2 D Q-3 B

Q-4 C Q-5 A Q-6 A

Q-7 B Q-8 D Q-9 A

Q-10 B Q-11 B Q-12 D

Q-13 (a) systematic: e.g. constant error (in all readings),cannot be eliminated by averaging
39

error in measuring instrument,

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random: e.g. readings scattered (equally) about true value,error due to observer,can be eliminated by averaging
(only if averaging not included for systematic)
Q-14 (a) (i) scatter of points (about the line)
(ii) intercept (on t axis)
2
(note that answers must relate to the graph)

(b) (i) gradient = Δ y/ Δ x = (100 – 0)/(10.0 – 0.6) gradient = 10.6 (cm s ) (allow ±0.2)
-2

(ii) s = ut +1/2at2 ,so acceleration = 2 x gradient ,acceleration = 0.212 m s-2

SECTION 2

Q-1 D Q-2 D Q-3 B

Q-5 (a) 2nd row random, 3rd row neither, 4th row systematic
(b) (i) 1. systematic error: the average / peak is not the true value / the readings are not centred around the true
value 2. random error: readings have positive and negative values around the peak value / values are scattered /
wide range
(ii) 1. accurate: peak / average value moves towards the true value
2. precise: lines are closer together / sharper peak

SECTION 3

Q-1 Q-2 Q-3

Q-4 Q-5 Q-6

Q-7 Q-8 Q-9

Q-10 Q-11 Q-12

Q-13 Q-14 Q-15

Q-16 Q-17 Q-18

Q-19 Q-20 Q-21

Q-22 Q-23 Q-24

Q-25 Q-26 Q-27

Q-28 Q-29 Q-30

SECTION 4

Q-1 C Q-2 C Q-3 A

Q-4 B Q-5 A Q-6 C

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Q-7 B Q-8 B Q-9 B

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Q-10 C Q-11 A Q-12 A

Q-14 (a) (i) car uses 210 / 14 = 15 litres of fuel SO volume reading = 45 litres .
(ii) from ‘full’ to ‘3/4’ MARK
(b) (i) line/graph does not pass through (‘empty, 0) / there is an intercept
(ii) (meter shows zero fuel when there is some left in the tank so) acts as a ‘reserve’

Q-15 (a) (i) all positions (accept 20, 40, 60, 80) marked to within +5° positions are 40°, 70°, 90° and 102°
(ii) allow 107° → 113° (b) e.g. more sensitive at low volumes (do not allow reference to ‘accuracy’)

SECTION 5

C.R.O

Q-1 C Q-2 B Q-3 A

Q-4 D Q-5 B Q-6 C

Q-7 B Q-8 C Q-9 D

Q-10 A Q-11 B

Q-12 (a) distance from source to reflector = 120 m

(b) speed of sound 300 cf speed of light 3 × 108 OR time = 240 / 300 (= 0.8)
OR time = 120 / 300 (= 0.4) , sound slower by factor of 106 OR time for one division 0.8 / 4
time base setting 0.2 s cm [unit required]
–1

Q-14 (a) (i) amplitude scale reading 2.2 (cm) amplitude = 2.2 × 2.5 = 5.5 mV
(ii) time period scale reading = 3.8 (cm), time period = 3.8 × 0.5 × 10–3 = 0.0019 (s)
frequency f = 1 / 0.0019 = 530 (526) Hz

(iii) uncertainty in reading = ± 0.2 in 3.8 (cm) or 5.3% or 0.2 in 7.6 (cm) or 2.6% [allow other variations of the
distance on the x-axis] actual uncertainty = 5.3% of 526 = 27.7 or 28 Hz
or 2.6% of 526 = 13 or 14
(b) frequency = 530 ± 30 Hz or 530 ± 10 Hz

Q-15 (a) ps = 10–12(s) or T = 4 × 50 × 10–12 (s) v = fλ or λ = 0.06(0) m

(b) 1500 = 3.0 × 108 × 4 × time-base setting or T = 5 × 10–6 s ,time-base setting = 1.3 (1.25) μs cm–1

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