What is the expression for the error in pulley mass?

In summary, the expression for the error in the mass of the pulley, mp, can be rewritten in terms of mp and calculated using standard error propagation rules for sums and products. It is possible that this question is from a 1st year lab at the U of A, as both the conversational partners have been asked this exact question before.
  • #1
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The expression for the slope of a graph of (m1 -m2) versus a is given by m = (m1 + m2 + mp)/g. What is the expression for the error in the mass of the pulley, mp?
 
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  • #2
You need to rewrite that in terms of mp, and then use standard error propagation rules for sums and products (for the mg term).

By the way, is there any chance this is from a 1st year lab at the U of A? I tutor there and have been asked this exact question a couple of times!
 
  • #3
Thats funny I got asked the exact same question as well from my friend at U of A.
 

FAQ: What is the expression for the error in pulley mass?

What is the definition of error in mass calculation?

The error in mass calculation is the difference between the measured or calculated value of mass and the true or accepted value of mass. It is used to quantify the accuracy of a measurement or calculation.

How is error in mass calculation expressed?

Error in mass calculation is typically expressed as a percentage or a fraction of the accepted value. For example, if the accepted value is 10 grams and the calculated value is 9 grams, the error would be 1 gram or 10%.

What factors can contribute to error in mass calculation?

There are several factors that can contribute to error in mass calculation, including limitations of the measuring equipment, human error, and environmental factors such as temperature or humidity. It is important to control for these factors as much as possible to minimize error.

How can error in mass calculation be minimized?

Error in mass calculation can be minimized by using precise and accurate measuring equipment, following proper measurement techniques, and repeating measurements multiple times to reduce random error. It is also important to use the correct units and formulas in calculations.

What is the significance of error in mass calculation?

The error in mass calculation is significant because it provides information about the accuracy and reliability of a measurement or calculation. It also helps to identify areas for improvement in the measurement process and can be used to determine the precision of the measuring equipment.

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