Uncertainty in Physics

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Objective

I can propagate uncertainties through calculations to determine the uncertainty in a final result.

Part 1 of 3

Warm-up video

Unknown Channel · 5:00

We don't generate video — this one is by Unknown Channel on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

7 questions

1

Explain the difference between absolute uncertainty and percentage uncertainty. Give an example of when it might be more useful to use percentage uncertainty.

2

A rectangle's length is measured to be 5.0 ± 0.1 cm and its width is 3.0 ± 0.1 cm. Calculate the area of the rectangle and the uncertainty in the area.

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

A rectangle has a length of 10.0 ± 0.2 cm and a width of 5.0 ± 0.1 cm. Calculate the area of the rectangle and the uncertainty in the area. A car travels a distance of 100.0 ± 1.0 meters in a time of 10.0 ± 0.5 seconds. Calculate the speed of the car and the uncertainty in the speed.

Sample answer included in the free materials

Get the materials

Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

  • Teacher Guide

    Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities

  • Student Handout

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