Calculate Physics Lab Uncertainty: Ekrot, Moment of Inertia, Angular Velocity

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The discussion focuses on calculating various physics lab parameters, including Ekrot, moment of inertia, and angular velocity, using the equations for gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy. The participant expresses confusion about how to handle uncertainties, particularly the distinction between relative and absolute uncertainties, and how to apply them in calculations. They mention that while relative uncertainties cannot be added, absolute uncertainties can be used to determine minimum and maximum values for measurements. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly calculating uncertainties in physics experiments. Ultimately, the participant resolves their confusion and finds a solution to their calculations.
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Homework Statement



this isn't really a word problem, it's part of a series of calculations from a physics lab
in this lab,
Ug = energy at initial position
Ug -> Ekrot + Ek at final position

I need to calculate
1. Ekrot
2. Moment of Inertia
3. angular velocity

Homework Equations



Ug = mgh
Ekrot = ½Iѡ²
Ek = ½mv²

ѡ = v/r

v = 2h/t (in this case)

m = 0.100m ± 0.0005
g = 9.8m/s²
h = 0.800m ± 0.0005
v = 0.21m/s ±0.01
r = 0.004m ± 0.002
t = 7.66s ± 0.08

The Attempt at a Solution



mgh = Ekrot + ½mv²
Ekrot = mgh - ½mv²

Δmgh = |dy/dm mgh| + |dy/dh mgh|
= |dy/dm gh| + |dy/dh mg|
= |dy = ghΔm| + |dy = mgΔh|

relative error = Δmgh / mgh

= |ghΔm / mgh| + |mgΔh / mgh|
= |Δm/m| + |Δm/h|

similarly, the relative uncertainty of ½mv² is..

Δ½mv²/½mv² = |Δm/m| + |2Δv/v|so... now what?
We're not allowed to add relative uncertainties, i really don't know what to do here
We can add absolute uncertainty but I have no knowledge on how to calculate absolute uncertainty.

also, the angular velocity, ѡ, = v/r. There is an uncertainty on v and an uncertainty on r. so how do I calculate moment of inertia (I) after I have the uncertainty of Ekrot?? The uncertainties of ѡ and r weren't used when when calculating uncertainty of Ekrot (unless my steps above are way off.. which i doubt)

I'm very confused, any help would be appreciated
thank you
~Ush
 
Last edited:
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As far as I know, relative uncertainties can't be added. I normally calculate using absolute ones, in a way so that I calculate the min and max values, and use the average.

For example, say t = 10+-0.1 secs and s = 50+-1meters, simple linear motion.

v(min) = 49m / 10.1 secs = 4.85
v(max) = 51m / 9.9secs = 5.15

So then I would say that v = 5m/s +- 0.15m/s.
Then follow the same routine to calculate other things, perhaps I=mv, according to this.
 
Tusike said:
As far as I know, relative uncertainties can't be added. I normally calculate using absolute ones, in a way so that I calculate the min and max values, and use the average.

For example, say t = 10+-0.1 secs and s = 50+-1meters, simple linear motion.

v(min) = 49m / 10.1 secs = 4.85
v(max) = 51m / 9.9secs = 5.15

So then I would say that v = 5m/s +- 0.15m/s.
Then follow the same routine to calculate other things, perhaps I=mv, according to this.

1) You cannot calculate max / min in this because some of the measurements were taken only once and some were taken as an average.
2) moment of inertia ≠ inertia

someone please help =[ I need to send the lab measurements in soon
 
anyone, please? =[
 
NVM FOLKS, I found out how to do this! =]
goodday
 
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