IB Physics Skills: Accuracy

The video tutorial covers IB Physics skills focusing on the accuracy of primary data. It explains accuracy as the closeness of experimental results to the true value, using Robin Hood's archery as an analogy. Systematic errors, which are consistent and reproducible errors, are discussed with examples. Methods to improve accuracy include calibration, correct instrument use, and reducing background noise. The video also highlights the importance of resolution and provides an example of exam questions related to accuracy.

What does accuracy in scientific experiments refer to?

• The number of times an experiment is repeated.

• How close the experimental results are to the true value.

• The variety of instruments used in an experiment.

• The speed at which an experiment is conducted.

What is a systematic error?

• An error that occurs randomly and unpredictably.

• A repeated, reproducible error consistently in the same direction.

• An error that only occurs once in an experiment.

• An error caused by human mistakes.

How can systematic errors be reduced?

• By calibrating instruments and using them correctly.

• By conducting experiments outdoors.

• By increasing the sample size.

• By using more expensive equipment.

What is parallax error?

• An error due to environmental changes.

• An error that occurs when data is recorded incorrectly.

• An error caused by faulty equipment.

• An error due to reading an instrument from an incorrect angle.

Why is it important to minimize background noise in experiments?

• To ensure the experiment is completed quickly.

• To reduce the cost of the experiment.

• To make the experiment more interesting.

• To prevent interference with the measurement of the main variable.

How can background noise be minimized in sound experiments?

• By using a louder speaker.

• By performing the experiment in a soundproof room or at a specific frequency.

• By increasing the volume of the recording device.

• By conducting the experiment outdoors.

What does the resolution of an instrument refer to?

• The size of the instrument.

• The ability of the instrument to distinguish between two similar values.

• The speed at which the instrument can take measurements.

• The cost of the instrument.

Why is it important to use instruments with high resolution?

• To ensure the experiment is completed quickly.

• To obtain measurements that are closer to the true value.

• To make the experiment more interesting.

• To reduce the cost of the experiment.

In the sample question, what was the main source of error in Jeff's experiment?

• The swing was too short.

• The stopwatch used was faulty.

• The swing was not released from the correct angle.

• Parallax error in measuring the length of the swing.

How can systematic errors be identified in an experiment?

• By repeating the experiment multiple times.

• By conducting the experiment outdoors.

• By comparing results with a known standard or true value.

• By using more expensive equipment.