A level physics paper 3 skills questions 1-13

How should data recorded in tables be shown within a column?

• To the nearest whole number
• To the same number of decimal places
• To different decimal places
• In scientific notation

What is the rule for the number of significant figures for processed data?

• Consistent with unprocessed data
• Two more than unprocessed data
• Always an integer value
• Rounded to the nearest whole number

How should you assess uncertainty if given data values in a table?

• Using the smallest data value
• Using the largest data value
• Using the data in the table
• Using an average of the data

What are two methods to assess uncertainty from table data?

• Use the smallest value
• Use half the range
• Use the difference from the mean
• Use the first value
• Use half of the total data

What is the instrument resolution approach to assess uncertainty?

• Use the largest interval
• Use the smallest interval
• Use half of the smallest interval
• Use the entire interval

List three steps to minimize uncertainty in measurements

• Use a ruler, take quick measurements, measure once
• Use the smallest instrument, measure in one direction, use multiple measurements
• Use only one measurement, avoid repeated measurements, use approximate values
• Use an instrument with fine resolution, measure at multiple orientations, calculate a mean

Why should measurements for circular objects be made at multiple orientations?

• To save time
• To average out errors
• To reduce parallax errors
• To maximize precision

How can you minimize parallax errors in measurements?

• Measure quickly
• Use a larger ruler
• Measure from different angles
• Keep the fiducial marker close to the observed object

How do you calculate the percentage uncertainty in a parameter?

• Divide the uncertainty by the mean, multiply by 100%
• Divide the mean by the uncertainty, multiply by 100%
• Subtract the uncertainty from the mean, divide by 100%
• Add the uncertainty to the mean, multiply by 100%

What does a percentage uncertainty of less than 5% indicate?

• Measurements are unreliable
• Measurements are repeatable
• Measurements are inaccurate
• Measurements are consistent