Edexcel A-Level Physics Reducing Experimental Errors

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics modifications to reduce errors using extra data points, lower uncertainty, apparatus changes and graph improvements.

Exam points

add extra readings or smaller intervals near graph thresholds to reduce uncertainty
increase measured distances or slow motion to reduce percentage timing uncertainty
improve thermal measurements with insulation, stirring or lower-temperature readings

[Maximum number: 2]

A student used a laser and screen to determine the diameter of a hair. The apparatus was arranged as shown.

The student placed the screen 2 m from the hair.

He switched on the laser. A diffraction pattern was produced on the screen, as shown.

Explain how the student could modify the arrangement of the apparatus to reduce the percentage uncertainty in this value.

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