Possible sources of error in compound pendulum experiment?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying potential sources of error in a compound pendulum experiment aimed at measuring acceleration due to gravity. Participants are exploring various factors that could affect the accuracy of their measurements in the context of an advanced higher physics investigation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are sharing their identified sources of error, such as friction between components and random uncertainties in measurements. Questions are raised about additional sources of error and the specifics of the experimental setup, including the role of the spring.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants contributing their thoughts on potential errors and seeking further clarification on the experiment's details. Some guidance has been offered regarding common sources of error, but there is no explicit consensus on all possible factors yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of an advanced higher physics investigation, which may impose specific requirements on the types of errors considered. There is an emphasis on measurement accuracy and the physical setup of the experiment.

ah4p
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completing my advanced higher physics investigation - measuring acceleration due to gravity
for the oscillating mass on a spring experiment

so far I have included friction between the nail & oscillating rod as a possible source of error

can anyone think of anything else?

thank you very much in advance
 
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ah4p said:
completing my advanced higher physics investigation - measuring acceleration due to gravity
for the oscillating mass on a spring experiment

so far I have included friction between the nail & oscillating rod as a possible source of error

can anyone think of anything else?

thank you very much in advance

Welcome to the PF.

I can think of at least 2 more error sources. What do you think they are?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

I can think of at least 2 more error sources. What do you think they are?

well I've obviously included random uncertainties in all measurements, and calibration & scale reading errors in all equipment used eg. metre stick, timer

I also said sometimes the metre stick will follow a slightly elliptical path due to swaying

I can't think of any more though

tah again :)
 
Not the two I was thinking of. What sources of loss can you think of...?
 
ah4p said:
completing my advanced higher physics investigation - measuring acceleration due to gravity
for the oscillating mass on a spring experiment

so far I have included friction between the nail & oscillating rod as a possible source of error

can anyone think of anything else?

thank you very much in advance
What exactly is the experiment here? What quantities are you measuring? How does the spring come into play?
 

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