General Physics 1

Quarter 1- Module 1:
Measurement and Vectors

Prepared by:
Ian Karlo Perilla
Special Science Teacher I
1 Module 1 - Lesson 1

Measurement Units

What I Need to Know

The learners…
1. Identify common unit conversion factors.
2. Solve measurement problems involving conversion of units
3. Express measurements in scientific notation.

What I Know
1. Convert 3456 millimeters to meters
a. 3.456 m
b. 34.56 m
c. 345 600 m
d. 3 456 000 m

2. How many inches is 9’10”

a. 116”
b. 118”
c. 129”
d. 228”

3. Convert 5 cm to inches
a. 1.965 in
b. 12.7 in
c. 2.35 in

4. 2.14x105
a. 0.0000214
b. 214 000
c. 21 400 000

5. Which of these values is greatest?

a. 0.0036
b. 360.0x10-4
c. 3.6x10-3
 6. (from Univ. Physics 14th Ed.) You are using water to dilute small amounts of chemicals in the
laboratory, drop by drop. How many drops of water are in a 1.0-L bottle? (Given the volume of
spherical drop is 4x10-3 cm3;
a. 4x106 drops
b. 4x10-6 drops
c. 2x10-5 drops
d. 2x105 drops

7. (from Univ. Physics 14th Ed.) The world’s largest cut diamond is the First Star of Africa
(mounted in the British Royal Sceptre and kept in the Tower of London). Its volume is 1.84 cubic
inches. What is its volume in cubic meters?
a. 7.24 x10-1 m3
b. 3.02x101 m3
c. 3.02 x10-5 m3

8. (from Univ. Physics 14th Ed.) The world land speed record is 763.0 mph, set on October 15, 1997,
by Andy Green in the jet-engine car Thrust SSC. Express this speed in meters per second.
(Conversion factors: 1 mi=1.609 km)
a. 341.0 m/s
b. 0.341 m/s
c. 1227.67 m/s

What’s New?
Fun Fact! Physics is an experimental science and experiments require knowledge in measurement. In fact,
while doing measurements, one must be aware on units and how to convert it; and since we deal with big
and tiny numbers, you should
understand how to express those
numbers in scientific notation. Physics is an experimental science thus requires
measurements!
Module 1 will give you a refresher about
unit conversion and scientific notation.

What is It
I. Units
Measurements deal with quantities and for every physical quantity, we have different units. physical
quantity is any number to describe a
physical phenomenon quantitatively.
When measuring something, number alone is NOT
The three (3) Physical quantities we’ll sufficient – you must indicate a unit.
discuss today is the “time, length and
mass”; seen in the table below is the SI
unit* for each quantity. (SI Units means International System of Units)
 Physical Quantity Dimension SI Unit Name SI Unit Symbol
Time T Second S
Length L Meter M
Mass M Kilogram Kg

Aside from metric system, other countries use Imperial or English units.

Metric Imperial Note: There should not be any

space between the prefix and the
Meter (m) Inches (in), foot (ft), mile (mi) unit,
Kilogram (kg) Pound (lbs), Example
ms = millisecond
Liters Gallons (gal), pints,
m s = meter second
See? They are different!

Not just that, Prefixes is also used; Instead of saying kilogram, it can be
written as “kg”, where k is the prefix of word “kilo” or “cm” for centimeter
where “c” in cm means “centi”; Here is the list of the prefixes you can use Fact: Use the meaning!
(for metric units only): Centi means “0.01”
Milli means “0.001”
Kilo means “1000” etc…

Name Numerical value (Factor) Prefix So when you see “kilo”meter, it

(Meaning) Scientific (symbol) just simply means “1000”meter, or
the word “centigram” simply
Notation* means “0.01 gram”. Just replace
Tera 1000000000000 x1012 T the prepix with its real meaning to
Giga 1 000 000 000 x109 G understand it easily. Example:

Mega 1 000 000 x106 M 20 km means 20 (1000) m = 20,000

Kilo 1000 x103 k m
3 cm means 3 (0.01) m = 0.03 m
Hecto 100 x102 h
Deka 10 x101 da Got it?
Deci 0.1 x102 d
Centi 0.01 x101 c
Milli 0.001 x10-3 m
Micro 0.000001 x10-6 µ
Please memorize
Nano 0.00000001 x10-9 n
this!
Pico 0.00000000001 x10-12 P

Question 1.1: The unit centigram (cg) is used primary in the laboratory, for precise measurements of
mass; 1 cg is equal to how many grams? _______________
*Answer on the last page

III. Scientific Notation

We use scientific notation to write huge and tiny numbers easily!
Instead of saying 0.00000000012 m you can say 1.2x10
 Step 1: Place the decimal point after the first digit.
Step 2: Count how many “jumps” you made to move the decimal point to its current position.
Step 3: Write the number of “jumps” at the upper right of this notation “x10 ”.
Ex: 2.1 Express 1435.0 grams in scientific notation

1.435.0 g 1.435x103 g
We have 3 “jumps” from the positive 3 means that the point’s original
point’s original position location is 3 jumps to the right!

We can also rewrite this as 1.235 kg since k

means “x103”

Ex. 2.3 Express 0.00000000845 grams in scientific notation

0.000000008.45 g 8.45x10-9 g
We have 9 “jumps” from the negative 9 means that the point’s original location
point’s original position is 9 jumps to the left!

We can also rewrite this as 1.235 kg since k means

“x103”
Look at the examples below:

Original Scientific Notation Using In scientific notation, when you see “-

“negative in superscripts it means tiny
(rounded) prefix number. Otherwise, when it is
1786958 m 1.78x106 m ? positive, it denotes larger number.
0.0000000456 m 4.56x10-8 m ? Ex:
8741.433 m 8.74x103 m 8.74 mm 1.0x103 means 1000 while
1.0x10-3 means 0.001
0.000004 4.0x10-6 4.0 µm
89.4563778 m 8.9x101 ? See?
6.7000 6.7x100 ?

Question 1.2: Which of the following is NOT equivalent to 3,600.0 kg? (Choose all that applies)
a. 0.036x105 g
b. 3.6x103 g
c. 0.36x104 g
d. 36.0x103 g
*Answer at the last page

Question 1.3: Which of these values is greatest?

a. 0.0036
b. 36.0x10-4
 c. 3.6x10-2
*Answer at the last page
III. Unit Conversion
To convert a given unit use this format:
Given x unit multiplier(s) = answer
where unit multiplier is the ratio between the given unit and the other unit. To understand the idea, take
“1 minute to seconds” as an example. We know that
1 minute = 60 seconds; For references: Common Unit
conversions (Need to memorize)
this means 1 min represents 60 secs, right? for this reason:
1 foot (ft) = 12 inches
1 𝑚𝑖𝑛 1 yard (yd) = 3 feet
• the ratio =1
60 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑠 1 mile (mi) = 1.609 km
60 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑠
• as does its reciprocal =1 1 inch = 2.54 cm
1 𝑚𝑖𝑛
1 gallon (gal) = 4.5 liters
These two (in red) is called unit multipliers. 1 liter = 1.75 pints
1 Liter = 1000 cm3 (cubic
Lets apply it!
centimeter)
(Ex. 1.1). Convert 6 inches to cm; 1 kg = 2.2 lbs
1 fluid ounce (fl. oz.) = 29.6 mL
Step 1: Find the given: The given is … 6 inches 1 cc (cubic centimeter) = 1mL
Find the right unit multiplier: It is the ratio between the given unit 1 ounce (oz.) = 28.35 g
(inches) and the other unit (cm) which is found to be…
Also memorize the meaning of
1 inches = 2.54 centimeters (look at the references) prefixes like “c” in cm, “k” in km etc.
1 𝑖𝑛. 2.54 𝑐𝑚
So our unit multipliers are : ( ) and ( ). Choose which
2.54 𝑐𝑚 1 𝑖𝑛.
among the two suits best.

Step 2: Use the format: Given x unit multipler

Given x unit multiplier = answer!
2.54 𝑐𝑚
6 𝑖𝑛 𝑥 ( ) = 15.24 𝑐𝑚
1 𝑖𝑛
So the answer is 15.24 cm! Fact:
“mph” means “miles per Treating Units Algebraically!
hour” Our aim in conversion is to cancel out units - and
“kph” means “kilometer per we can do it if we pick the right unit multiplier, if
(Ex. 1.2): Convert 763.0 mi/h to m/s hour” not you can get the wrong answer.
𝑚𝑖
Given: 763.0 In Ex. 1.1 we CANNOT do this:
ℎ

𝑚𝑖 𝑚 1 𝑖𝑛 2.36 (𝑖𝑛)2
We wil convert to , therefore we need a unit 6 𝑖𝑛 𝑥 ( )=
ℎ 𝑠 2.54 𝑐𝑚 𝑐𝑚
multiplier for miles to meter and hours to 1 𝑖𝑛
Even 2.54 𝑐𝑚 is considered a correct unit
seconds. multiplier. This is because our aim here is to
cancel inches “in” and get a unit in “cm” not in
The relation: 1 mi = 1.609 km, then 1 km = 1000 m. “in2/cm”. In this case, we cannot cancel units if
they are both in numerator. We should reverse
1 hr = 36000 s it to cancel out the units, like this:

Given x unit multiplier = answer! 2.54 𝑐𝑚

6 𝑖𝑛 𝑥 ( ) = 15.24 𝑐𝑚
1 𝑖𝑛
𝑚𝑖 1.609 𝑘𝑚 1000 𝒎 1 ℎ𝑟 𝒎
763.0 ℎ𝑟
𝑥 (
1 𝑚𝑖
)(
1 𝑘𝑚
)(
3600 𝒔
) = 180
𝒔 Tip: Treat units algebraically (treat units as
variables, like “x” and “y”); reverse the order of
the unit multiplier if necessary, for you to cancel
out units.
Ex. 1.3: How many inches is 9’10”
a. 116” Fact:
The symbol ‘ means feet
b. 118” The symbol ‘’ means inches
c. 129”
If you cannot find direct relation between a unit
d. 228” to unit (ex. mi->m), you can use two or more-
unit multiplier to arrive with the answer just like
12 𝑖𝑛
Answer is = (9𝑓𝑡) ( ) = 108 𝑖𝑛 + 10 𝑖𝑛 = 118 𝑖𝑛 𝑜𝑟 𝟏𝟏𝟖" in Ex. 1.2 we do
1 𝑓𝑡
mi->km->m

Ex. 1.4 (from Univ. Physics 14th Ed.) The world’s largest cut diamond is the First Star of Africa
(mounted in the British Royal Sceptre and kept in the Tower of London). Its volume is 1.84 cubic inches.
What is its volume in cubic meters?
a. 7.24 x10-1 m3
b. 3.02x101 m3 Important: Don’t forget to
c. 3.02 x10-5 m3 enclose this unit multiplier; we
Solution: need to get “in3” for cancellation
and left with “cm3”
 Whats More?
Activity 1.1 Conversion of Units
Convert the given quantities
1. 50 cg to kg
2. 240 mm to m
3. 3500 cm3 to l
4. 6.7 ms to s
Activity 1.2 Scientific Notation
Express the following numbers in scientific notation:
1. 52
2. 0.0032
3. 0.0000103
4. 634.7
5. 5600
Transform the following scientific notation to standard notation:
1. 3.266x104
2. 3.4x106
3. 3.00x10-2
4. 2.5x10-4
5. 9.4x102

Activity 1.3 Problem Solving (from University Physics 14th ed.)

1. A rather ordinary middle-aged man is in the hospital for a routine check-up. The nurse writes the
quantity 200 on his medical chart but forgets to include the units. Which of the following
quantities could the 200 plausibly represent? (a) his mass in kilograms; (b) his height in meters;
(c) his height in centimeters; (d) his height in millimeters; (e) his age in months. Why and why
not?

2. Four astronauts are in a spherical space station. (a) If, as is typical, each of them breathes about
500 cm3 of air with each breath, approximately what volume of air (in cubic meters) do these
astronauts breathe in a year? (b) What would the diameter (in meters) of the space station have to
be to contain all this air? (Express answer in scientific notation)
Hint: Assume one person do 10 breaths per minute; one breath needs 500 cm3 of air; The
4
volume of sphere is given by 𝑉 = (𝜋𝑟 3 ), where r is radius. Do not forget to account four (4)
3
astronauts.
 What I have learned?

• We discussed the 3 physical quantities and their units on SI. For Length, Time and Mass we use
m, s, and kg.
• To convert a unit, just multiply the given with a unit multiplier/s.
• Use scientific notation when dealing with very big or very small numbers.

What I Can Do?

Tips and Techniques:
Lets apply this to real life situation.
In scientific calculators you can do unit
Activity 1 conversion.

1. Answer the following: In CASIO ES Calculators, Click Shift then 8

a. Calculate your mass in grams, kilograms and lbs.
b. Calculate the length of your notebook in mm, cm,
inches, foot and km.
Show the conversion of units and express your answer in
scientific notation.
Write your answer and solution for the following questions:
2. Urine drug testing requires a minimum of 30
cc of urine. How many is that in ml?
(CONV) and the Code; Check the back of the
calculator to find the numeric code for each
conversion. It can only do 40 simple
conversions, most is to convert English to
Metric system, for example 01 lets you to
convert inches to centimeter. But note,
calculators can only do simple conversions,
helpful for you to memorize basic
conversion factors.
You can also convert huge and tiny numbers
into scientific notation by clicking the “ENG”
button on the calculator.

3. Typical coke cans are 12 fl. oz? How many Difference between fluid ounce (fl. oz) and
ml is that? ounce (oz.)
Fluid ounce is used to measure fluids
4. Smaller cars generally have gas tanks
(volume) while ounce (oz.) is for dry
that holds 12 gallons worth of gas. Convert it in measurements (weight)
liters.
5. The external tank of the space shuttle held 143,000
gallons of liquid oxygen (1,359,000 pounds) and 383,000 gallons of liquid hydrogen (226,000
pounds). Convert all the figures in SI Units.
6. In the US, the standard speed limit is 70 mph for rural freeways. Convert it in kph.

Assessment:
A. Unit Conversion and Scientific Notation
1. According to the label on a bottle of salad dressing, the volume of the contents is 0.362 liter
(L). Using only the conversions 1L=1000 cm3 and 1 in = 2.54 cm and express this volume in
cubic inches. Write your answer in scientific notation (2 pts.)
 2. The density of gold is 19.3 g/cm3. What is this value in kilograms per cubic meter? Express
your answer in scientific notation (2 pts.)
3. A square field measuring 100.0 m by 100.0 m has an area of 1.00 hectare. An acre has an area
of 43,600 ft2. If a country lot has an area of 6.0 acres, what is the area in hectares? Express
your answer in scientific notation (2 pts.)

B. Reflection:
Write your personal insights about the lesson using the prompts below.
I understand that _____________.
I realize that __________________.

Reflective Journal Rubric

Evidence of 5 3 2 Score
Thoughtfulness
Focuses reflections on
the topics, activities or 15%
tasks presented in the
activity.
Supports reflections 25%
with examples based
on a personal account
or real-life experience.
Reveals feelings 5%
(negative or positive)
towards the topic or
work with explanation.
Relates current 10%
insights with the
past/present/
Future applications
Relates lessons
learned with what one
already knows/to a
real-life situation.
Encompasses all 15%
topics discussed or
assigned as coverage
of reflection
Presents no idea that is 15%
questionable.
Others (Pls. specify)
Submitted on Time 10%
Final Mark 100%

Additional Activities

• Read pages 2-7 of University Physics 14th ed. by Young & Freedman
• If you have access to the internet, please watch this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqmIbcId3B0
 Additional Information: Types of Physical Quantities:

• Based Quantities – must be defined Length – meter, Time – second, Mass – kilogram, Electric
Current – Ampere, Temperature – Kelvin, Amount of substance – mole, Luminous intensity –
candela
• Derived quantities – quantities that can be defined in terms of the 7 base quantities, Ex: Speed
m/s, Power J/s, Pressure N/m2
• Length – 1 meter is defined as the distance travelled by light in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458
• Second. Based on the definition that the speed of light is exactly 299,792,458 m/s. Time – 1
second is defined as 9,192,631,770 cycles of the microwave radiation due to the transition
between the two lowest energy states of the cesium atom. This is measured from an atomic clock
using this transition.
• Mass – 1 kg is defined to be the mass of a cylinder of platinum-iridium alloy at the International
Bureau of weights and measures (Sèvres, France).

Answer Key

2. Diameter should be 27 m.
forget to write units.
are plausible. Lesson don’t
teenager; therefore, None
years. This is an age of a
too short, 200 months is 17
ordinary man. 200 mm is
are this tall but not an
2 m or 6.6 ft, some people
200 m is too high, 200 cm is
1. 200 kg is too big for human,
Activity 1.3

5. 5.6x103
4. 6.347x102
3. 1.03x10-5
2. 3.2x10-3
1. 5.2x101 8. A
Activity 1.2 7. C
6. D
4. 0.0067 s 5. B
3. 3.5 L 4. B
2. 0.24 m 1.3 C 3. A
1. 0.005 kg 1.2: D 2. B
Activity 1.1 1.1: 0.01 grams 1. A
What’s More? Questions Pre Test

References: University Physics 14th ed., Young and Freedman, pp. ,2-9, 28, 29
2 MODULE 1 - LESSON 2

Measurement Errors

What I Need to Know

The learners should be able to
1. Differentiate accuracy from precision
2. Differentiate random errors from systematic errors
3. Estimate errors from multiple measurements of a physical quantity using variance

What I Know

9. A given circular table has a radius of 75.5 ± 0.05 𝑐𝑚. Find the best value of its area.
a. 1.790x104 cm ± 0.002x104 cm2
b. 1.790x104 cm ± 0.05x10-3 cm2
c. 1.79x104 cm2 and 1.788x104 cm2

10. Consider the table below:

Trials Measured value of
time (s)
1 1.581
2 1.583
3 1.582
4 1.580
5 1.585
6 1.581

The table gives the result of an experiment for measurement of time, t, needed by a particle to fall
from rest from a height of 1.650 m. Find the best value of time (t).
a. 1.582 ± 0.01
b. 1.582 ±0.001
c. 1.582 ±0.1
11. Which of these statements is NOT true for systematic errors?
a. They arise due to errors in the measuring instrument used.
b. They are reproducible that are consistently in the same direction
c. Repeating the observations or increasing the sample size can eliminate them.
d. They arise from the design of the study.
12. Which of these statements is NOT true for random errors?
a. They are difficult to detect
b. They are less likely for small sizes
 c. They do not arise from the design of the study

13. A group of measurements for which there is insignificant random error but significant systematic
error is
a. Imprecise and biased
b. Imprecise and unbiased
c. Precise and biased
d. Precise and unbiased

Whats New?
Did you know that engineers and scientist use a “notation” when doing measurements to express how
certain they were on their answers? Why do they do that? That is what you are going to learn in this
Lesson. Lesson 2 is all about what they called “errors”
or “uncertainties”: What does 5.5 ± 0,03 means? Why is
What 5.5 ± 0.03 means?, Why the
it important to report for estimations and uncertainties
in measurements specially in Physics?
symbol “±” important in science and
engineering?

What Is It
I. Errors or Uncertainties in Measurements.
Quick question: Refer to the figure on the left, what is the
reading on the book’s edge?
a. 190.0 mm
b. 191.0 mm
c. greater than 190.0 mm but less than 191.0 mm

Figure 1. Measuring the width of a book using a ruler (in mm)

If you look closely, the book’s width is NOT at exact 190.0 mark but When measuring, indicate the
greater than 190.0 and less than 191.0 mm, uncertainties – a simple
This discrepancy on measurements is called “errors” or miscalculations can make
“uncertainty” horrible results.

There are Three (3) common sources of errors: Instrument/calibration, Environment and
Observer/Observation.
Two types of error:
 1. Random error – “completely random” They are unpredictable and can't be replicated by
repeating the experiment again.
Sources: human factors etc.
This leads to: lack of accuracy of measurements.
What can you do? Increase sample size to reduce random errors
2. Systematic error – produce consistent errors, either a fixed amount (like 1 lb) or a proportion
(like 105% of the true value)
Sources: imperfect calibration of instruments
This leads to: gradation of measuring instruments.
What can you do? Calibrate the equipment properly an control the environment to remove
systematic errors.

How will we express errors or uncertainties in measurements? Use this format

𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 ± 𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒚

x is “best estimate”
𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 Δx is how much the
uncertainty is
This symbol means
“more or less than”
Example 1.1
Measure the width of the book (Figure 1.1)
using a ruler, what is the answer?
How to Find Uncertainty?
For digital instruments, such as digital weighing scale, the
uncertainty is the instrument’s resolution (Read the
instruments label, you can see it there!)
For non-digital instruments such as rulers, the uncertainty
is HALF of the smallest scale division or “least count” (In the
ruler, the smallest scale division is 1 mm, therefore the
uncertainty of a typical ruler is 0.05 mm)

Propagation of Uncertainties: How to Add, Subtract,

Multiply, Divide etc. Uncertainties

Addition: (𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 ) + (𝑦 ± 𝛿𝑦) = (𝑥 + 𝑦) ± (𝛿𝑥 + 𝛿𝑦)

Subtraction: (𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 ) − (𝑦 ± 𝛿𝑦) = (𝑥 − 𝑦) ± (𝛿𝑥 + 𝛿𝑦)
𝛿𝑥 𝛿𝑦
Multiplication: (𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 )(𝑦 ± 𝛿𝑦) = (𝑥𝑦) ± 𝑥𝑦( 𝑥 + )
𝑦
(𝑥±𝛿𝑥) 𝑥 𝑥 𝛿𝑥 𝛿𝑦
We should write: Division: (𝑦±𝛿𝑦) = 𝑦 ± 𝑦 ( 𝑥 + )
𝑦
𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 ± 𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒚 Square Root: √𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 = √𝑥 ± 2
𝛿𝑥
√𝑥
Our best estimate is: 190.5 mm
Uncertainty is +0.5 and -0.5 mm (which is the half of the ruler’s smallest scale division)

So, we should write the answer (190.5 ± 0.5) mm (which means the value is in the range between 190
and 191)
Example 1.2

A given circular table has a radius of 75.5 ± 0.05 𝑐𝑚. Find the best value of its area.

Answer: We know that the area of circle is given by 𝜋𝑟 2 , plug in the values we have 𝜋(75.5 ± 0.05)2 or
𝜋(75.5 ± 0.05 )(75.5 ± 0.05 ) Using the formula in multiplying errors: (𝑥 ± 𝛿𝑥 )(𝑦 ± 𝛿𝑦) = (𝑥𝑦) ±
𝛿𝑥 𝛿𝑦 0.05 0.05
𝑥𝑦( + ) we get, (75.5)(75.5) ± (75.5)(75.5) ( + ) = 5700.25 ± 7.55 = r2 we got the “r2”. Then
𝑥 𝑦 75.5 75.5
multiply this to π.

𝐴 = 𝜋(𝑟 2 )
0 7.55
𝜋(5700.25 ± 7.55) = (𝜋(5700.25)) ± (𝜋(5700.25)) ( + )=
𝜋 5700.25
17907.86 ± 23.719

𝑜𝑟 1.790𝑥104 ± 0.002𝑥104 𝑐𝑚2

II. Uncertainty of the Mean of Multiple Measurements

If you desire a more refined value for a quantity, you should conduct Conduct several trials for
many trials. For multiple measurements, the best value is taken as (use more refined value.
this format):

𝑴𝒆𝒂𝒏 ± 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝑬𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒓

𝑥̅ ± 𝜎𝑥̅

The mean (average) of n The standard error of

trial values [ 𝑥
̅ read as “x-
the mean 𝑥̅
bar” bar means average]

To compute for the mean (average): To compute for standard error

1 𝑛 (𝑥 −𝑥̅ )2
𝑥̅ = ∑ 𝑥
𝑛 𝑖=1 𝑖
𝜎𝑥̅ = √∑𝑛𝑖=1 𝑛(𝑛−1)
𝑖

The value 𝜎𝑥̅ is the uncertainty of the mean. Notice that as n increases, the uncertainty decreases!

Example 1.2 You want to find out how long a particle fall from rest from a height of 1.650 m. After
several trials, here is the result:
 Trials Measured value of
time (s)
1 1.581
2 1.583
3 1.582
4 1.580
5 1.585
6 1.581

Find the best value of time t.

Solution:
Finding the mean?
Step 1, find the value of the mean 𝑡̅ (t-bar)
Mean is equals to sum divided
𝑛 6 by how many they are (n)
1 1
𝑡̅ = ∑ 𝑡𝑖 = ∑ 𝑡𝑖 𝑛
𝑛 6 𝑥̅ =
1
∑ 𝑥𝑖
𝑖=1 𝑖=1 𝑛
𝑖=1
1
= (1.581 + 1.583 + 1.582 + 1.580 + 1.585 + 1.581)
6
= 𝟏. 𝟓𝟖𝟐 𝒔

𝒕̅ = 𝟏. 𝟓𝟖𝟐 𝒔

Step 2, find the standard error 𝜎𝑡̅ use the formula:

𝑛
(𝑥𝑖 − 𝑥̅ )2
𝜎𝑥̅ = √∑ “Difference between the “n” means how many samples
𝑛(𝑛 − 1) sample and the mean” you have – please review
𝑖=1
standard errors in statistics 😊
𝑛 6
(𝑥𝑖 − 𝑥̅ )2 (𝑡𝑖 − 𝒕̅)2
∑ =∑
𝑛(𝑛 − 1) 6(6 − 1)
𝑖=1 𝑖=1
1
= [(1.581 − 1.582)2 + (1.583 − 1.582)2 + (1.582 − 1.582)2 + (1.580 − 1.582)2
30
+ (1.585 − 1.582)2 + (1.585 − 1.582)2 + (1.581 − 1.582)2

= 𝟓. 𝟑𝟑𝟑𝟑𝟑𝟑𝒙𝟏𝟎−𝟕
𝑛 TIP: Using MS Excel:
(𝑥𝑖 − 𝑥̅ )2
𝜎𝑥̅ = √∑ = √5.333333𝑥10−7 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟏 To find average use
𝑛(𝑛 − 1)
𝑖=1
=AVERAGE(number1,number2…)
𝝈𝒙̅ = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟏 𝒔
To find std. deviation
Answer: The best value of time t is then be given by 1.582 𝑠 ± 0.01 𝑠 or
=STDEV(number1,number2…)
(1.582 ± 0.01) 𝑠
What is the difference between Precision and Accuracy?
Precision of a measurement pertains to the degree of fineness on that measurement. It may also mean the
degree of agreement of elements in a set of measurements.
Associated with precision is percent difference, Δ% of one particular measurement xi with respect to the
mean of a set of results is defined as:
𝑥𝑖 − 𝑥̅ Smaller percent difference
∆% = means that your measurement
𝑥̅
is more precise.

Accuracy pertains to the degree of nearness of one measurement to a known standard. Associated with
accuracy is percent error. Percent error, ∈% , is defined as
𝑥𝑚𝑣 − 𝑥𝑠𝑣 Percent error indicates the
∈% = | | (100%)
𝑥𝑠𝑣 nearness or accuracy of
measured value to a standard
value

Precise and Biased =

Insignificant (“not
noticeable”) random errors
but has significant
(noticeable) systematic error

Imprecise and Biased =

Significant (“noticeable”)
random error but
insignificant (not noticeable)
systematic error

Figure 2. Illustration of Concepts of Precision, Accuracy

and Bias. The dots represent measurement data, the
center of the concentric circles refers to the target value.
The farther the dots at the center, the more error it has.

Whats More?
(Activity from Experiments in Mechanics & Heat)
Two groups of students performed measurements of Group A Group B
density of aluminum. The results are shown in the table. (g/cm3) (g/cm3)
1. Calculate the standard deviations of results of 2.71 2.64
Group A; 2.65 2.70
2. and Group B. 2.75 2.71
2.35 2.68
3. Which sets of measurements has a greater
2.67 2.73
precision based on your calculations in (1)
2.86 2.70
4. The density of aluminum at the mentioned
2.23 2.69
temperature and pressure is 2.70 g/cm3. Find the
2.68 2.72
percent error of the mean for Group A and Group 2.70 2.73
B. Which group yielded a more accurate value 2.73 2.74
of density?
*Answer at the last page.

What I Have Learned?

• Differentiate accuracy from precision

• Differentiate random errors from systematic errors
• Express measurement errors and uncertainties
• Estimate errors from multiple measurements of a physical quantity using variance

What I Can Do?

Answer the question: Figure shows the result of a miscalculation
about the stopping position of the train.
If a train travels 890 km from Berlin to Paris and then overshoots the
end of the track by 10 m, what is the percent error in the total
distance covered? ____________
State ways on what you can do to minimize measurement errors.

Figure 3. This spectacular mishap was the

result of a very small percent error

__________________________________________________________
 Assessment
Measurement Errors and Uncertainties
(This assessment was designed for you to apply the concept of measurements discussed in Lessons 1 and
2)

Student’s Name: Date Performed:

Section: Date Submitted:

Objectives:
The exercise has the following objectives:
1. Apply unit conversion in real life context
2. Determine and compare the uncertainties for single and multiple measurements

Part 1: Comparison of Measuring Scales

1. Pick a book. Measure the length of the edge using the different scale in a typical 12 inch ruler.
Table 1.1 One Trial Measurement on the book’s Length

Scale Direct Reading Converted Reading (mm)

Best Estimate Uncertainty Best Estimate Uncertainty
Millimeter (mm)
Centimeter (cm)
Inches (in)

How did you get the converted reading from inches to mm?

Compare the uncertainties of the measurements taken using different scales of the ruler,
what did you notice to the number of their significant figures?

Which of the three scale is most precise? cm, mm, or inch? Explain.
Part 2. Propagation of Uncertainties
Measure the length, width, thickness, and volume of the book you use in Part 1 and complete the table
below.

Quantity Best Estimate Uncertainty Relative Uncertainty

Length (cm)
Width (cm)
Thickness (cm)
Volume (cm)3

How did you get the relative uncertainty? Show your solution here.

How did you get the best estimate and uncertainty of the book’s volume ? Show your
solution here.

Convert your volume in cubic-cm (cm3)to cubic-feet (ft3), show your solution here.

Compare the relative uncertainties of the length, width and thickness of the book to that of
its volume.

Part 3. Single Trial Versus Multiple Trial Measurement

1. Drop a 1-peso coin from rest from a given height (you can choose what height it is) and calculate
the time t it takes using a portable stopwatch. Do 10 trials, record your answer on Table 1.2
Table 1.2 Time of Travel
Mean time (s)
Trial Time of
Travel (s) ______________
1
2 Distance travelled (cm)
3
4 ______________
5
6
7
8
9
10
 2. Calculate the mean of the first-three trials, the first-5 trials and the first-10 trials. Write your
answers here; Show the solution.

Trials Time of travel (s)

Mean Uncertainty
First-3
First-5
First-10

How you get the mean and uncertainty? Show your solution here:

Explain the behavior if the uncertainty of the mean time as the number of trials of
measurement increases.

Additional Questions:

Which do you prefer to use, an instrument which is more precise or one which is more
accurate? Why?

Why having an understanding in unit conversion and uncertainties important?

Additional Activities

• Read pages 8-9 Section 1.5 and 1.6 of University Physics 14 th ed. by Young & Freedman
 University Physics 14th ed., Young and Freedman, pp. ,2
Experiments in Mechanics and Heat, Alinea et.al, pp. 2-19
References:
• What I Know: A,B,C,B, C
• Whats More – Activity 1.
1. Std Error of Group A is 0.192
2. Std Error of group B is 0.0295
3. Group B is more precise than Group A
Conclusion: The lower the std. deviation/error, the more precise it is.
You can validate it by checking out the average of the percent differences of
Groups A and B
4. To get the accuracy, use percent error as the basis.
Average of the Percent error of each trial in group A is 0.04333
Average of the percent errors of each trial in group B is 0.008148
This means that Group B has more accurate result than group A
Conclusion: The lesser the percent error, the more accurate it is.
Trials Percent Error of Percent Error
Group A of Group B
0.003703704 0.022222
0.018518519 0
0.018518519 0.003704
0.12962963 0.007407
0.011111111 0.011111
0.059259259 0
0.174074074 0.003704
0.007407407 0.007407
0 0.011111
0.011111111 0.014815
Average 0.04333 0.008148
Answer Key
3 Module 1: LESSON 3

Vectors

What I Need to Know

The learners:
1. Differentiate vector and scalar quantities
2. Perform addition of vectors
3. Rewrite a vector in component form

What I Know

1. Considers vectors 𝑝⃗, 𝑞⃗, 𝑟⃗

Which diagram correctly shows (in red) vector equal to 2 𝑟

⃗⃗ + 0.5𝑝
⃗⃗ − 𝑞
⃗⃗ ?
 The table shows the x- and y-components of vectors 𝑝⃗, 𝑞⃗, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑟⃗ from the previous problem.
p q r
x-component 4 0 3
y-component 0 -3 -4

For the vector ( 0.5 𝑝

⃗⃗ − 𝑞
⃗⃗ + 2𝑟
⃗⃗ )

2. The x-component
3. The y-component
4. The acute angle vector makes with the +x direction. Your answer should be a positive number
expressed in degrees.

What’s New?
In this module, you will learn what vector and vector operations. This topic important in physics because
many quantities used in physics are vectors.

What is It
Difference between Vector and
3.1. Defining Vectors Scalar:
If a quantity has only magnitude,
without direction, it is called
Vectors are quantities that have both magnitude and direction. It is often
SCALAR QUANTITY (Ex: Mass)
represented by arrows (directed line segments). Example are force,
acceleration, displacement and velocity.Example is a wind vector; wind
“speed” has both magnitude and direction.

Weak/smaller magnitude
= shorter arrows 20
19
18
Latitude (y-axis)

17 A wind vector
16
15 terminal
14
13 origin
Strong/Large magnitude 12
= longer arrows
11
112 116 120 124
Longitude (x-axis)
 Scalar Quantities (described by single number Vector Quantities (has both magnitude “the how
without direction) much/big part” and a direction in space.
Example: Time, temperature, mass and density, Example: Velocity, force and displacement.
distance

3.2. Representing Vectors

1. To denote vector through letters plus the accent ⃗⃗⃗⃗ for the variable.
For example:
𝑎⃗ =< 3,2 >
“Vector A has an initial point at O and a terminal point at P at
coordinates ”. or
2. or You can simply have the letter in bold. Ex:
a = <3,2>

3. or we can represent it using 𝑖̂ (i-hat) and 𝑗̂ (j-hat)

Figure 1.1 shows a vector with 3 units
a = 3i+2j at x-axis and 2 units on y-axis, thus can
be written as “a=3i+2j” or a=<3,2>;
or simply bold i and j
where 3 is the x-component and 2 is
a=3i+2j the y-component

2. Vectors can also be denoted by stating the magnitude and the angle.

3.5 Referring to the figure, we can say that vector B “has a

3 magnitude of 5 units and direction of 36.87 degrees above
2.5 horizontal axis” or “has a magnitude of 5 units and direction
2 of 36.87 degrees North East”
⃗⃗
𝐵 magnitude
y

1.5 To convert this into i-hat (x-components) and j-hat (y-

1 5 components) format, we can use trigonometry.
0.5 36.87°
0 Since right angle, we can use Pythagorean theorem
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
𝑜𝑝𝑝 𝑎𝑑𝑗
x 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
ℎ𝑦𝑝 ℎ𝑦𝑝
𝑦
𝑠𝑖𝑛36.87 = ; 𝑦 = 5𝑠𝑖𝑛36.87 = 4
5

5 𝑐𝑜𝑠36.87 =
𝑥
; 𝑥 = 5𝑐𝑜𝑠36.87 = 3
y 5

Therefore
⃗⃗ =< 4,3 >
𝐵
36.87 deg
⃗⃗ = 4𝒊̂ + 3𝒋̂
𝐵
x
 Figure at the left shows the x-
component (Ax) and y-component (Ay)
of vector A. You can find it using the
formula Acosϴ and Asinϴ; Notice that
Ax and Ay do also have directions.

Question 1.1 and 1.2

7 Consider the vectors below:

6
1. Which of the following is/are true about the vector P?
5 𝑃⃗⃗ (choose all correct answer)
4
y

3 a. 𝑃⃗⃗ =< 2,4 > b. 𝑃 = 2𝑖 − 4𝑗

2
1
c. 𝑃⃗⃗ =< 3, −6 > d. 𝑃⃗⃗ = 3𝑖̂ + 6𝑗̂
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
x
2. Which of the following is/are true about the vector Q?
6
⃗⃗
𝑄 (choose all correct answer)
5
4
⃗⃗ = 5𝒊 + 4𝒋
a. 𝑄 ⃗⃗ = 4𝒊 + 3𝒋
b. 𝑄
3 ⃗⃗
𝑄 ⃗⃗ = 4𝑖̂ + 5𝑗̂ ⃗⃗ = < 5,4 >
y

c. 𝑄 d. 𝑄
2
1
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
*Answers at the last page
x

2.1 Addition and Subtraction of Vectors

The length of the vector tells you “how much or how big” is the quantity.
Example of a vector is a displacement.
Knowledge of vectors is important in physics
Displacement is simply a change in position of an
object, regardless of the path taken. because many quantities used in physics are
vectors.
Example 1: A biker travels 500 m straight to north
and then 1.00 km straight to the east. How far and
in what direction is he from his starting point?
Visualize:
1 km
Solution: we can use Pythagorean theorem to find the
magnitude of the resultant vector (R).
0.5 km
𝑅⃗⃗ 𝑟 2 = 0.52 + 12 = 𝟏. 𝟏𝟏𝟖 𝒌𝒎
ϴ
To find direction, we can use angle ϴ above horizontal axis
(North East),
𝑜𝑝𝑝 0.5
Note: Please review Pythagorean 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = ; 𝜃 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( ) = 𝟐𝟔. 𝟓𝟔°
theorem; and please make sure that 𝑎𝑑𝑗 1
your calculator is set to “D” or “DEG”
not “RAD”.

Therefore the answer is, 1.118 km with direction 26.56 degrees North of East.
Please check the graphical principle of adding vectors (Figure 1.13 and 1.14)

Figures 1.13 and 1.14 from University Physics 14 th ed. pp. 12 and 13.
 Whats More?
Activity 1. Vector Components

⃗⃗, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐⃗
The table shows the x- and y-components of vectors 𝑎⃗, 𝑏
a b c
x-component 4 0 3
y-component 0 -3 -4

1. Graph vectors a, b and c

2. Indicate the angle of vectors a, b and c above horizontal x-axis.
Activity 2. Vector Addition

⃗⃗ + 2𝑐⃗ ), find the resultant vector’s

For the vector ( 𝑎⃗ − 0.5𝑏
1. x-component
2. The y-component
3. The acute angle vector makes with the +x direction. Your answer should be expressed in
degrees,
⃗⃗ + 2𝑐⃗
4. Graph vector 𝑎⃗ − 0.5𝑏

What I have learned?

1. Differentiate vector and scalar quantities
2. Perform addition of vectors
3. Rewrite a vector in component form

What I Can Do?

1. To test if you can apply this vector notation in real life:
using component method, determine the resultant displacement of going to your kitchen from the main
door of your house (assume your floor is a flat plane; x-y plane); Approximate 1 step = 1 meter.

Vector Displacement (m) x-component y-component

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑1
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑1
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑1
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑1
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑1
2. What if your kitchen is located at the second floor? How can you denote vectors with z-component, the
vertical component?
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________.

Assessment
1. Which of the following answer contains two scalar quantities and one vector quantity?
a. Mass, displacement, time
b. Time, length, mass
c. Temperature, displacement, force
d. Displacement. velocity, force
2. How to add vectors graphically?
a. Put them in a line
b. Put them tail to tail
c. Put them tip to tip
d. Put them tip to tail
3. Vector A is 20 units due North and Vector B us 12 units due South what will be the resultant
vector A+B?
a. 32 units North
b. 20 units South
c. 32 units South
d. 8 units North
4. Which expression is FALSE concerning the vectors shown in the sketch?

5. A car moves 1.70 km due east and then moves north. If the magnitude of the total resultant vector
is 2.5 km, what is the direction of the car’s total displacement vector with respect to due east?
a. 34° SE
b. 47° NE
c. 43º SE
d. 56 ° NE
6. Find the magnitude and direction of the vector represented by the following pairs of components
Ax = -8.60 cm and Ay = 5.20 cm;
a. 101 cm, -31.16°
b. 10 cm, -58.84°
c. 101 cm, -58.84°
d. 10.0 cm, -31.16°
 7. Two vectors A and B are added together to form vector C. The relationship between the
magnitudes of the vectors is given by A+B=C. Which one of the following statements concerning
this vector is true?
a. A and B must be displacements
b. A and B must have equal lengths
c. A and B must point in the same directions
d. A and B point in the same direction.

In each case, find the x- and y-components of vector 𝐴⃗,

8. 𝐴⃗ = −15.0𝑖 + 22.4 𝑗
9. 𝐴⃗ = 5.0𝐵⃗⃗ ; 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝐵⃗⃗ = 4𝑖 − 6𝑗
10. Find the resultant of vectors A and B if A is 𝐴⃗ = −15.0𝑖 + 22.4 𝑗 and 𝐵
⃗⃗ = 4𝑖 − 6𝑗
11. Find the acute angle vector makes with the +x direction. Your answer should be expressed in
degrees,

Additional Activities
Readings: University Physics 14th Ed. Young and Freedman, pp. 10-19 (Vectors, Unit Vectors, Addition
and Subtraction of Vectors; not included vector product and scalar product)

References:
University Physics 14th Ed. Young and Freedman, pp. 10-19 (Vectors, Unit Vectors, Addition and
Subtraction of Vectors; not included vector product and scalar product)
Pre Test Questions What’s More?
1. A 1.1: B only, answers Activity 1.
For 2 to 4 check cant be A,C or D
last page since our x units
are positive 2 and
y-component is -4
(negative because
y-component
points downward)
1.2: B only.
Answer Key
Pre Test Questions What’s More?
Activity 2.
Pre Test Questions What’s More?
Activity 2.