Neco 2024 Physics Question 5

Practice objective / multiple choice question 5 from the 2024 Neco Physics examination.

Neco 2024 Physics Objective / Multiple Choice Hard Difficulty
Question 5 NECO • 2024 • PHYSICS • objective

In an experiment to determine the acceleration due to gravity using a simple pendulum, a student measures the length as \(L = 0.500\) m with a meter rule whose least count is 1 mm, and records the time for 20 oscillations as \(t = 40.2\) s using a stopwatch with a least count of 0.01 s. The student repeats the timing three times, obtaining \(t_1 = 40.2\) s, \(t_2 = 40.4\) s, and \(t_3 = 40.1\) s. Assuming the period is given by \(T = 2\pi\sqrt{L/g}\):\n(a) Find the best estimate of \(g\) using the average period.\n(b) Calculate the percentage random error in the period due to the spread of the three measurements.\n(c) Calculate the percentage systematic error in \(g\) due to the length measurement uncertainty (take the least count as \(\pm0.5\) mm).\n(d) Identify two possible sources of systematic error not accounted for, and suggest a precaution to minimise each.

Answer Options

A. a) g ≈ 4.70 m s^{-2} b) Random error ≈ 0.60 % c) Systematic error ≈ 0.05 % d) (i) Air currents - shield the pendulum; (ii) Non‑rigid string - use a stiff rod.
Correct Answer B. a) g ≈ 4.88 m s^{-2}\n b) Random error ≈ 0.38 %\n c) Systematic error ≈ 0.10 %\n d) (i) Air resistance - use small amplitude or conduct in still air; (ii) Large swing angle - keep angle ≤5°.
C. a) g ≈ 9.80 m s^{-2} b) Random error ≈ 1.20 % c) Systematic error ≈ 0.30 % d) (i) Magnetic field interference - use non‑magnetic materials; (ii) Incorrect timing - use electronic timer.
D. a) g ≈ 5.10 m s^{-2} b) Random error ≈ 0.45 % c) Systematic error ≈ 0.15 % d) (i) Friction at the pivot - lubricate the hinge; (ii) Temperature variation - perform experiment at constant temperature.
Correct Answer
B
Correct Option:
a) g ≈ 4.88 m s^{-2}\n b) Random error ≈ 0.38 %\n c) Systematic error ≈ 0.10 %\n d) (i) Air resistance - use small amplitude or conduct in still air; (ii) Large swing angle - keep angle ≤5°.

About This Question

This is Neco 2024 Physics Question 5. It is one of the objective questions from the 2024 Neco Physics examination.

Difficulty level: Hard .

View More Neco 2024 Physics Questions More Neco Practice Questions Back to Questions

Master the Exam!

You've seen a preview, but there are thousands more questions plus AI tutor to break down complex solutions.

Unlock Full Access Available for Android & Windows
Chat with Support