Calculating Error In Wavelength

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The discussion focuses on calculating the error in wavelength using the formula λ = d * Sin(x), where d is the slit size and x represents measured angles. The participant is uncertain about how to compute the overall error given multiple angle measurements. It is confirmed that the error will vary for each angle, and a common approach is to calculate the error for a central value and apply that error uniformly across all measurements. This method simplifies the analysis while still providing a reasonable estimate of the error. Overall, understanding how to apply error calculations in this context is essential for accurate results.
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Homework Statement



I am unsure whether I am calculating the error correctly for the wavelength
given that x=14.3,15.3,16.2,17.1,23.3 all in degrees

Homework Equations



\lambda=d*Sin(x)

where d is my slit size in meters \frac {1}{600000}
x=measured angle
\delta x= 0.1 degrees

The Attempt at a Solution



\delta\lambda= \frac {|Cos(x)|\delta x}{600000}

Now with my given x's they would produce a different error each time is that right or how do I get an over all error?
 
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Yes, that is the correct expression for the error and it will be different for each angle. Error is an estimate, so it is quite common to just work it out for a middle value and apply that same size error bar to all the points.
 
Thank you very Much
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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