How Should Error Be Calculated When Determining Angles from Voltage Maxima?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating error in angle determination from voltage maxima in an experiment measuring specific rotation. The user initially considered applying fractional error from mean voltage to angle but ultimately found that using standard error on the mean of the angles derived from individual voltage maxima provided a clearer and more accurate approach. This method effectively accommodates fluctuations in individual readings, ensuring a more reliable error estimation for the angle measurements.

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  • Understanding of specific rotation and its measurement techniques
  • Familiarity with voltage measurement and data collection methods
  • Knowledge of statistical concepts such as standard error and mean
  • Experience with experimental data analysis and error propagation
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Students and researchers in chemistry and physics, particularly those involved in experimental design and data analysis related to optical activity and specific rotation measurements.

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Homework Statement



I have taken 5 sets of readings of voltage against angle for an experiment to determine specific rotation. (I'm using the maxima to determine the phase shift) So, having averaged these values and determined the maximum, I can then trace back to the angle at which this appears. Naturally, this will move depending on the concentration of my solution.

But I don't know how I should obtain the error on this angle. Because I'm obtaining it via the voltage maximums and then merely tracing back to known/consistent values...

So I feel a little stuck, Any guidance would be very much appreciated

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I considered taking the fractional error on my mean voltage and simply applying this to my angle to accommodate for fluctuation [As in the mean value may be the greatest, but individual readings within my 5 may fall before or beyond.]

OR

Use each individual set and determine an angle at which the maximum applies, and then use the standard error on the mean of the angle as my error on each value
 
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Sorry, but I could do with a clearer description of the experiment and how you dealt with the data.
What does one set of readings consist of?
What numbers are being averaged, and of what numbers is the maximum being taken?
Maybe you could post the full details of your working.
 
haruspex said:
Sorry, but I could do with a clearer description of the experiment and how you dealt with the data.
What does one set of readings consist of?
What numbers are being averaged, and of what numbers is the maximum being taken?
Maybe you could post the full details of your working.

It's okay. I managed to sort it out and the latter approach was the correct one. I had marked it as solved using my phone but it musn't have gone through. Regardless, thank you
 

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