IB Physics SL S2.3.1 Concluding

Practise writing qualified conclusions that cite graph form, intercepts or uncertainty intervals and distinguish evidence that supports a model from proof that it is true.

Exam points

conclude whether a model is supported by citing linearity, intercept and the stated valid range
judge accuracy by comparing experimental and accepted-value uncertainty intervals
distinguish evidence that can falsify a prediction from agreement that only supports it provisionally

[Maximum number: 1]

A student investigates whether the Stefan-Boltzmann law, $L=4 \pi \sigma R^{2} T^{4}$ , applies to stars.
L= luminosity of the star, in W
$\sigma=$ Stefan-Boltzmann constant
R= radius of the star, in m
T= surface temperature of the star, in K
To verify the law, they obtain values from databases and manipulate the data as shown.

Table for Question S2.3.1—Concluding question 1 — IB Physics SL

Outline a conclusion for the investigation.

ALTERNATIVE 1

the linear graph suggests that SB applies to stars

ALTERNATIVE 2

the «accurate » calculation of $\sigma$ from the data suggests that SB applies to stars

ALTERNATIVE 3

« if 2c has a value of $\sigma$ that is not accurate » the calculation of the $\sigma$ from the data suggests SB does not apply to stars

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S2.3.1—Concluding question 1