Neco 2021 Physics Question 1

Practice essay / theory question 1 from the 2021 Neco Physics examination. This question covers Measurements and Units .

Neco 2021 Physics Essay / Theory
Topic: Measurements and Units
Question 1 NECO • 2021 • PHYSICS • essay
Neco 2021 Physics Question 1 diagram

A physics laboratory is equipped for measuring the acceleration due to gravity (g) using a simple pendulum. The apparatus consists of a thin, non‑elastic string attached to a small spherical bob. The length of the string can be measured with a metre rule, and the period of oscillation is measured with a digital stopwatch. The diagram of the setup is provided.

Question Parts

( a )
Describe a reliable procedure for determining the effective length (L) of the pendulum. Include how you would avoid systematic errors associated with the point of suspension and the centre of mass of the bob.
( b )
Derive the theoretical expression for the period (T) of a simple pendulum for small amplitudes, starting from the definition of simple harmonic motion.
( c )
The length of the pendulum is measured as L = 0.500 m (to three significant figures). The stopwatch is used to time 20 complete oscillations, giving a total time of 28.40 s. Calculate the experimental value of g and state its percentage error relative to the accepted value of 9.800 m s⁻². Show all steps.
( d )
Identify two major sources of error in this experiment and suggest practical methods to reduce each of them.

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About This Question

This is Neco 2021 Physics Question 1. It is one of the essay questions from the 2021 Neco Physics examination.

The question covers Measurements and Units .

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