Why Is the Experimental R_eq Value Higher Than Theoretical?

AI Thread Summary
The experimental equivalent resistance (R_eq) value of 8.94 ohms is higher than the theoretical value of 8.33 ohms due to potential sources of error in the measurement process. Instrumentation inaccuracies and the inherent tolerance of the resistors, which can vary by ±7%, may contribute to this deviation. Additionally, the resistance of other circuit components, often assumed negligible, could introduce extra resistance. The close y-intercept of the regression line at 0.004 V suggests minimal systematic error. Overall, these factors can explain the discrepancy between experimental and theoretical R_eq values.
Soaring Crane
Messages
461
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



On my potential vs. current graph for resistors in parallel, the slope of the regression line is 8.94 ohm (V/I = R) for a 10 ohm resistor and a 50 ohm resistor. The theoretical value of R_eq is R_eq = 1/[(1/50 ohm) + (1/10 ohm)] = 8.33 ohm. Upon comparing the two R_eq values, I was wondering why the experimental R_eq value is higher than theoretical value. What sources of error could account for this deviation? (Oh, the regression line's y-intercept value is close to 0; it is 0.004 V.)


Homework Equations



See above.

The Attempt at a Solution



See above.

Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Whats the error on your instruments? Whats the error on your resistors? You answer is with \pm 7%, which is pretty good if your using high school equipment.
 
The other wires in the circuit have a small resistance which is usually assumed to be negligible. This could account for some extra resistance. Also, the resistors are labeled 10 and 50 ohms, but could be higher or lower based on the percentage of error (bottom line on the resistor)
 
TL;DR Summary: I came across this question from a Sri Lankan A-level textbook. Question - An ice cube with a length of 10 cm is immersed in water at 0 °C. An observer observes the ice cube from the water, and it seems to be 7.75 cm long. If the refractive index of water is 4/3, find the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. I could not understand how the apparent height of the ice cube in the water depends on the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. Does anyone have an...
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'
Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
Back
Top