Physics 101.

1
Fundamentals of Physics I Laboratory
2nd semester
AY 2013 2014

Activity 2: Error Analysis

Objectives:
Differentiate between systematic and random errors. define systematic and random error
Calculate errors from measurements with several variables. discuss and give examples of error
propagation
Identify possible sources of errors in an experiment.
Compute for the effective force constant for springs in series and springs in parallel.

Guide questions:
1. What is the force constant of a single spring?
a. How did you measure this number?
b. How do you know this to be true?
2. What is the force constant of two springs connected in series?
a. How did you measure this number?
b. How do you know this to be true?
3. What is the force constant of two springs connected in parallel?
a. How did you measure this number?
b. How do you know this to be true?

Expected Output: Individual Write-up

Methodology
Data summary
Sample computations
Answers to guide questions

Things needed (to be provided by the instructor):

2 pcs of springs
Masses
Iron stand
Ruler
Weighing scale