CONCEPTUAL QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

1. How technology is shaped by physics?

Physics and technology are closely related. Physical phenomenon is there behind
every technology. In this regard, physics has provided basic understanding for
developing new instrumentation such as Computer Tomography (CT Scan),
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and laser surgeries.
The use of physics in IT has also improved the standards of communication by
introducing new technologies such as hologram technology in cell phones.
2. Physics and biology are considered different branches of science,
how physics links with biology?
Physics and biology are considered different branches of science but yet physics can
be linked with biology. This can be explained by considering its deep involvement
in techniques and technology used in biological research as:
i. X-rays and radioactive radiations are the invention of physics which play an
important role in various fields of biology and medical field.
ii. Convex and concave lenses are the invention of physics which are used for sight
effect of radiation. The convex lenses are also used microscope to stud various
micro organisms.
iii. The movement of muscles and bones follow the principles of physics.
iv. The effect of gravity on organisms is explained by physics.
v. The effect of temperature and light on organisms is explained by physics.
vi. Heart beating is measured by stethoscope which works on the principles of
physics.
vii. Measurement of human blood pressure is the application of Bernouli’s equation
which includes in the fluid dynamics portion of physics.
viii. Green house effect is the invention of physics which is used for the growth of
plants.

In the light of above facts, it can be said that although physics and biology are
different branches but physics and biology can be linked with each other.

3. Why are measurements important?

In our daily life, we have to come with different transactions with others in today’s
business world. To record our business data we need accurate measurement of items
and things to meet our day-to-day business requirements.
On the other hand, in scientific research we also have to meet with different
phenomena. To acquire the accurate results, we need deep knowledge of the
minimum and maximum measurements accurately and in a precise manner.
 In the light of above facts, it can be concluded that measurements are very much
important in every field of life.
4. Why area is a derived quantity?
A derived quantity is the combination of various base quantities. Beside it, if a base
quantity occurs more than once, then it also gives rise to a certain derived quantity.
Thus area is a derived quantity because in case of area the base quantity “length”
occurs twice i.e. in the form of length and width (area=length x width). Its SI unit is
meter square (m2).
5. Name any four derived units and write them as their base units?
Four derived units are as:
Newton
As
Force = mass x acceleration

So, unit of force i.e. Newton will be equivalent to:

1Newton = kilogram x meter/second2

1N= kg x m/s x s
Pascal
As

Pressure = Force/Area
So, unit of pressure i.e. Pascal will be equivalent to:
1Pascal = 1Newton/1meter2
1Pascal = kilogram x meter/second2/meter2
1Pa = (kg x m/s x s)/(m x m)
Joule
As
Work = Force x distance
So, unit of work i.e. Joule will be equivalent to:
1Joule = 1Newton x 1meter
1Joule = (kilogram x meter/second2) x meter
1J = (kg x m/s x s) x m
Volt
As
Voltage = Current x Resistance

So, unit of voltage i.e. Volt will be equivalent to:

1Volt = Ampere x Ohm

1V = 1A x 1Ω
6. Why in physics we need to write in scientific notation?
In physics, we require accurate and precise measurement of physical quantities to
get the optimum results.
 Sometimes we have to come up with situations in which readings are extra lengthy
and measurements are more complex (e.g. figures such as speed of light
3,00,000,000m/s etc.) which increase confusion and doubtfulness in recording and
handling such information. So it is best to represent these quantities/measurements
in terms of powers of 10 in standard form (or scientific notation) to make
measurement an accurate and easy task reducing the size of a certain measurement
and increasing accuracy.
7. What is least count? How least count for vernier caliper and screw
gauge are defined?
Least Count (L.C)
The minimum value that can be measured on the scale of measuring instrument is called
least count.
Least Count of Vernier Caliper
Least count of vernier caliper can be found by the following formulae:
i. Least count = One MS division – One VS division
L.C = 1MS division – 1VS division
L.C = 1mm - 0.9mm
L.C = 0.1mm
Smallest divisionon MS
ii. Least count =
Total number of divisions onVS
1mm
L.C = =
10
L.C = =0.1mm
8. How can we find the volume of a small pebble with the help of
measuring cylinder?
The measuring cylinder is made up of transparent plastic or glass having a vertical scale in
milliliters or cubic centimeters.
The volume of a small pebble can be found using measuring cylinder as:
i. Water is poured into measuring cylinder until the cylinder is about half full and the
volume of water is measured.
ii. An irregular shaped object such as small pebble is lowered gently into the water.
iii. When the pebble is completely immersed into the water, the volume of the water is read
again.
iv. The volume of the pebble is found by subtracting first volume from the second volume.
v. Finally, the difference between the two readings gives the volume of the pebble.

THE END