Neco Model Questions Vol1 2018 Physics Question 1

Practice essay / theory question 1 from the 2018 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Physics examination. This question covers Measurements and Units, Experimental Physics, Error Analysis .

Neco Model Questions Vol1 2018 Physics Essay / Theory
Topics: Measurements and Units Experimental Physics Error Analysis
Question 1 NECO_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2018 • PHYSICS • essay
Neco Model Questions Vol1 2018 Physics Question 1 diagram

A laboratory is set up to determine 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, a fixed support, a metre‑scale for measuring the length of the pendulum, a digital stopwatch, and a protractor for measuring the swing angle. The length of the string is measured from the point of suspension to the centre of the bob.

Question Parts

( a )
State the theoretical expression that relates the period of a simple pendulum to its length and g, and explain briefly the assumptions involved in deriving this expression.
( b )
Describe a step‑by‑step procedure to measure the period of the pendulum accurately, including how you would obtain a reliable average period.
( c )
The length of the pendulum is measured as L = 0.500 m (±0.001 m). After performing the procedure, the average period obtained from 20 oscillations is 1.42 s (±0.02 s). Calculate the experimental value of g and its percentage uncertainty.
( d )
Identify two possible sources of systematic error in this experiment and suggest a method to reduce each error.

Detailed Solution & Marking Scheme

Get the step-by-step solution, key points required by examiners and detailed marking guidance through the Edcrib AI Tutor.

Reveal Answer

About This Question

This is Neco Model Questions Vol1 2018 Physics Question 1. It is one of the essay questions from the 2018 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Physics examination.

The question covers Measurements and Units, Experimental Physics, Error Analysis .

View More Neco Model Questions Vol1 2018 Physics Questions More Neco Model Questions Vol1 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