AP Physics
Measuring Common Objects
(using significant digits)
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Purpose:
The purpose of this lab activity is to practice:
- using a measuring tape, meter stick, a vernier caliper, and a
micrometer
- recording measurements with a proper number of significant
digits
- calculating using significant digits
- choosing an appropriate measuring device
- choosing appropriate units of measurement
EQUIPMENT:
meter stick
|
metric ruler
|
vernier caliper
|
micrometer caliper
|
measuring tape
|
metal cylinder
|
wooden block
|
|
PROCEDURE:
There are three parts to this lab. For each section, your lab
report should contain:
- a brief discussion of your procedure, which should identify
what measuring instruments you used.
- all data clearly recorded (use a data table) using the
appropriate number if significant digits and correct units.
- a sample calculation for each part.
Here's what you do:
- Determine the volume of a block of wood.
- Find the volume of a metal cylinder.
- Find the thickness of a page of paper in your text book. Think
about this. How can you get the most accurate measurement?
- Determine the volume of your classroom.
adapted from J.L. Doyle, "Measurement Lab" (Newark High
School, Newark, OH). Permission granted by the author.
[Lab Index]
BHS
-> Staff
-> Mr. Stanbrough ->
AP Physics-> Measurement->
this page
last
update August 13, 2004 by JL
Stanbrough