Propagation of errors addition numbers without uncertainty

AI Thread Summary
When calculating the total force T using the equation T = M*a + µk*M*g, the only source of uncertainty comes from the acceleration a, which has an uncertainty of ±0.001 m/s². Given that M, g, and µk are treated as constants with no uncertainty, they do not contribute to the overall uncertainty in T. The calculated force T is 458.5 N, and the uncertainty in T is determined solely by the uncertainty in a, resulting in a final uncertainty of 0.35 N. Therefore, the total result is T = 458.5 N ± 0.35 N. Understanding how to isolate sources of uncertainty is crucial in these calculations.
Silvestor
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Homework Statement


I am having trouble calculating uncertainty when a number is added to a value with uncertainty.

M = 350g
a = 0.624 \pm 0.001
µk = 0.07
g = 9.80 m/s2

Homework Equations


T = M*a + µk*M*g


The Attempt at a Solution


T = (350g)*(0.624 m/s2) + (0.07)*(350g)*(9.80m/s2)
T= 458.5 N
D_{}t = M*(D_{}a) + ...
D_{}t = (350g)*(0.001 m/s2) + ...
D_{}t = 0.35 N + ...
 
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If you're given that there is no uncertainty in M, g, or µk then you treat them as constants that are 100% accurate. The uncertainty in the result, then, only depends upon the uncertainty in a, as you've written. The uncertainty in the µk*M*g term is zero.
 
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