Calculating Acceleration Error: Deriving an Equation for Error in a = 2h/t^{2}

In summary, the conversation is about deriving an equation for the error in acceleration, given a formula for acceleration in terms of height and time. The attempt at a solution involves finding the error of height and time, converting it to a percentage, and using a formula to calculate the error of acceleration. However, the person seeking help clarifies that they are looking for the symbol \delta a, not percent error.
  • #1
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Homework Statement

Derive an equation for the error in acceleration given the following formula: [tex]a = 2h/t^{2}[/tex]

where a is acceleration, h is height, and t is time.

The attempt at a solution

I was able to come up with the following error equation for acceleration:

[tex]\delta a = a(\delta h/h) + 2t^{2}(\delta t/t)[/tex]

Is this correct?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Well I assume you've experimentally found height and time. so put the error of height in percentage of the height. and then there is a formula i can't remember for error of something squared. but find that, but it in percent as well. then all under a square root, add the square of your errors. then you will have a percent error of acceleration
 
  • #3
The thing is that I'm not looking for percent error, I'm looking for [tex]\delta a[/tex]
 

FAQ: Calculating Acceleration Error: Deriving an Equation for Error in a = 2h/t^{2}

What is the purpose of calculating acceleration error?

The purpose of calculating acceleration error is to determine the accuracy of the calculated acceleration in relation to the actual or expected value. This can help identify and correct any sources of error in the measurement or calculation process.

How is acceleration error calculated?

Acceleration error is calculated by comparing the measured or calculated value of acceleration to the expected or theoretical value. The difference between these two values is the error, which can be expressed as a percentage or absolute value.

What factors can contribute to acceleration error?

There are several factors that can contribute to acceleration error, including human error in measurement or data entry, equipment limitations, environmental factors, and errors in the underlying equations or assumptions used to calculate acceleration.

How can acceleration error be minimized?

Acceleration error can be minimized by ensuring accurate and precise measurements, using reliable equipment, controlling for environmental factors, and carefully checking equations and assumptions used in the calculation. Additionally, repeating the measurement and taking the average can help reduce random errors.

Can the equation for acceleration error be applied to all scenarios?

The equation for acceleration error, a = 2h/t^{2}, is based on the assumption that acceleration is constant. Therefore, it may not be applicable to scenarios where acceleration is not constant, such as in cases of changing velocity or acceleration due to external forces.

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