Group#4: Hachim-Jeongho-Wasim-Cado
PHYS 3A
Professor Rosa Alvis
9/7/2021
Lab 1: Measuring Density
Objective:
The purpose of this experiment is to utilize both high and low precision instruments to
measure a given metal cylinder’s mass and dimensions and use the data to calculate its
volume and density. Ultimately, we ought to observe the discrepancy between the two
precision instrument types. The measurements will be noted by the four assigned group
student members.
Procedure:
In this experiment, we need to read and understand the measurements of a metal
cylinder. An object’s mass and dimensions can be measured utilizing a variety of tools
including, but not limited to, low precision kitchen scale (13g uncertainty), a high
precision digital scale (0.05g uncertainty), a low precision metric ruler (0.05cm
uncertainty), and a high precision Vernier caliper (0.010cm uncertainty).
Length is generally measured by using a meter ruler and the least count of the meter
ruler is 1.0mm. Consequently, meter rulers are only limited to measure length
increments no larger than 1mm. On the other hand, high-precision instruments such as
the Vernier caliper can measure length segments as small as 0.02 mm.
The figure below shows an image of the Vernier caliper. There are two scales in the
caliper. The main scale provides the main number(s) plus one decimal place to the
reading, and the vernier scale provides two additional decimal places to the reading,
which gives the scale its high precision capability.
