Question detail

What is a source of uncertainty when measuring the extension of a spring?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Forces and elasticity

Question

  1. A. Inaccurate measurement of the original length
  2. B. Using a spring with a known spring constant
  3. C. Adding loads too slowly
  4. D. Measuring in millimetres instead of centimetres

Answer

Inaccurate measurement of the original length

Explanation

An inaccurate measurement of the original length can lead to incorrect calculations of extension, affecting the overall results.

Common mistake

Common Mistake in Evaluating Uncertainty

Students often overlook the impact of measurement precision on uncertainty, leading to inaccurate evaluations of force and extension measurements.

To fix this, students should always consider the smallest division on their measuring instruments and account for it when calculating uncertainty.

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