R. Gallagher www.theconicalflask.
ie
Measurement
Units
• Units are a way of representing a number in science.
• Without units, it is just a number. Units help make sense of the number.
• SI unit is the unit used internationally in science.
SI unit Symbol
Length Metre m
Mass Kilogram kg
Time Second s
Length
• Length is the distance between two points.
• Instruments used: Metre stick, Ruler, Trundle wheel, Vernier callipers,
Opisometer.
• Large curved lines = Trundle wheel
• Short curved lines (e.g. maps) = Opisometer (outdated now with google maps)
• Circular object diameter = Vernier callipers
Error of Parallax
• Looking at a measurement reading from an angle can lead to a false
measurement, this is called the parallax error.
• Read the measurement directly in front of the reading for a precise measurement.
Mass
• Mass definition: The amount of matter an object contains.
• Units: g, kg
• We often confuse mass with weight. Weight is a force. (See forces chapter)
• Instruments for measuring mass: Mass balance. (not weighting scales)
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R. Gallagher www.theconicalflask.ie
Area
• Area definition: is the amount of surface that covers an object.
• Units: m2, cm2
• Area of a square or rectangle formula: Length x Width
• Area of a circle: ∏ x r2
Volume
• Volume definition: How much space an object takes up.
• Units: m3, cm3 (mL)
• Instrument: for measuring volume: Graduated cylinder, pipette and graduated
droppers.
• Volume formula: Length x width x height
How to measure the volume of an irregular solid
• Fill overflow can up to the spout.
• Ensure object is gently lowered by string into the overflow can to
prevent splashing.
• Completely submerge object in the overflow can.
• The water that flows out into the graduated cylinder is the volume
of the object.
The meniscus
• Liquid in a container will always curve.
• This is more noticeable in narrow containers.
• We always read from the bottom of the meniscus at eye
level.
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