Experimental Uncertainty and Error Analysis

Abstract

The diameter and mass of a steel ball was measured and recorded by the class. These measurements were to determine error in measurements and the derived quantities, volume and density. The diameter was determined using a dial caliper and the mass, a triple beam balance. The results of the error for diameter were not as expected while the results of the volume and density were deviated greatly from expectations; only the weight had a small error.

Experimental

Instruments:

1. Steel ball

2. Dial caliper (Mano Stat Corp.)

3. Triple beam balance (OHAUS)

Procedure:

1. The steel ball was measured for its diameter using the caliper using gloves to not add hand oil to the ball.

2. The ball was placed on the balance with pan to measure mass.

3. The volume was calculated using (4/3)pi(r^3)

4. The density was calculated using mass/density

5. The results were aggregated with the class’s.

6. The mean and standard deviation was determined for the four values.

7. A frequency histogram was made for the diameter and mass.

Results and Discussion

The