V A graphical method is

used to analyze the

results of an
experiment.
V A graph shows the
relationship between
two physical quantities.
For example, the
relationship between
the length of pendulum
and the period of
oscillation.
`. The x-axis
represents the
manipulated
variables
2. The y-axis
represents the
responding variables
3. The variables and
units must be
labelled on the x-
axis and the y-axis
V
se scale which can V Avoidusing an odd
be read easily scale such as
V For example: ‡ ` cm represent 7 units
‡ 2 cm represent ` unit ‡ ` cm represent 3 units
‡ 2 cm represent 2 units V This will cause
‡ 2 cm represent 5 units difficulty in taking
readings.
V eadings should be
plotted with sharp
pencil
V
sually a cross (x) is
used to plot the points
of a graph
V At least five points are
needed to plot a
graph
V A good graph should
cover two-thirds of the
whole space
VA good line
should«..
‡ Pass through most of
the plotted points
‡ Have almost the same
number of points above
and below it
‡ Be sharp and smooth
‡ Pass through any of
the axes
V ðometimes the line on a graph is not to long
enough
V We have to extend it so that it cuts the axes
V Thegradient of a graph can be found by
using the following formula:

r


ra
V Thesteps in
determining the
gradient of a graph:
‡ Choose two points
which are far apart. For
example, (25,22) and
(5,6)
‡ Draw a right-angled
triangle as shown in
figure
 ‡ Find the value of ǻy ‡ Calculate the value of
(difference in the y- gradient in the correct
coordinates) and ǻx unit:
(difference in x-

coordinates)

‡ Write down the units of

ǻy and ǻx Æ
‡ For example,



r

Æ
 i


i
Æ`
r ` 
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