Neco 2017 Physics Question 1

Practice essay / theory question 1 from the 2017 Neco Physics examination. This question covers Measurements and Units, Simple Pendulum, Error analysis .

Neco 2017 Physics Essay / Theory
Topics: Measurements and Units Simple Pendulum Error analysis
Question 1 NECO • 2017 • PHYSICS • essay

A simple pendulum is set up as shown in the diagram. The length of the string from the point of suspension to the centre of mass of the bob is measured as 0.85 m with an uncertainty of \(\pm 0.01 \text{ m}\). The mass of the bob is 0.200 kg. The period of oscillation is measured using a stopwatch by timing 20 complete oscillations. Three trials give total times of 40.2 s, 40.5 s and 40.1 s respectively.

Question Parts

( a )
Calculate the mean period of the pendulum and the standard uncertainty in the period.
( b )
Using the mean period, determine the experimental value of the acceleration due to gravity \(g\). State the formula used and any assumptions made.
( c )
Discuss two possible sources of systematic error in this experiment and explain qualitatively how each would affect the calculated value of \(g\).
( d )
If the length of the pendulum were increased by 10\%, predict the new period using the relationship between period and length.

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About This Question

This is Neco 2017 Physics Question 1. It is one of the essay questions from the 2017 Neco Physics examination.

The question covers Measurements and Units, Simple Pendulum, Error analysis .

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