PHY 2053 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Measurement Uncertainty, Significant Figures, Scientific Method
19 Jan 2017
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Document Summary
Method of collecting and analyzing empirical data about the natural (material) universe. Organized body of knowledge resulting from application of the scientific method. Extrapolate model predict new effect outside observed data. Compare quantity of interest of standardized units [of mass, time ] Last digit implies measurement precision (201cm vs 201. 115cm) Practical use in lab, difficult to use in course problems. Relevant for homework and exams: required match within ~2% Have usually been tied to specific cultures. Most popular standards: imperial (ft & lbs) vs metric (si; meter & kg) systems. We will be using the si system of units in this course. Omnibus trade and competitiveness act of 1988: Industry in the united states is often at a competitive disadvantage when dealing in international markets because of its nonstandard measurement system, . Designate the metric system of measurement as the preferred system of weights and measures for united states trade and commerce.
