Ib Lab - 08 G From Freefall (dcp Ce)

International Baccalaureate Physics

4/PSOW

Acceleration due to gravity – Error and uncertainty investigation IB Criteria Assessed Aim: Data Processing, Evaluation This experiment is designed to introduce you to the detail that is needed when constructing and presenting your table of results for an Criteria Aspect Level experiment. It will also allow you to practice some of the data analysis assessed 1 2 3 awarded techniques that have been recently discussed in class. Pl (a) Method: 1. For various heights, drop the object as it falls to the floor, accelerating at a rate of g = 10m/s2. 2. Time the object 3 times as it falls and take an average of these times.

Pl (b) DC DPP CE

Data Collection: • Complete the results table given. • Include all the uncertainties and percentage uncertainties as indicated by the table headings. Data Processing and Presentation: • Draw a suitable graph that will allow an analysis to be made on the raw data. • From your graph calculate the acceleration due to gravity, g, for a falling object. • Include actual and percentage uncertainties by plotting suitable straight lines to determine these errors. Conclusion and Evaluation: • Draw conclusions from the data that you have collected and analysed - compare your results to literature values. • Evaluate the procedures, including any modifications you had to make to overcome problems. Include an evaluation of the apparatus used. • Suggest ways in which the procedure could be modified in order to improve it for the future.

© 2006 - Mike Dickinson

8356923.doc

International Baccalaureate Physics

4/PSOW

Acceleration due to gravity – Error and uncertainty investigation Distance l /m

Absolute uncert, in distance /m

© 2006 - Mike Dickinson

Percent. uncert in distance /%

Time 1 t1 /s

Time 2 t2 /s

Time 3 t3 /s

Average Time tave /s

Absolute uncert. in time /s

Percent. uncert in time /%

Time2 t2 / s2

Percent. uncert in t2 /%

Absolute uncert in t2 / s2

Accel., a

a = 2l / m/s

t2 2

Percent uncert in accel, a /%

Absolute uncert in accel, a / m/s2

8356923.doc