Practical Quick Revision

Instruments and Data Representation in Tables (Short Summary)

How to read the voltmeter

In the lab, usually we use these two types of voltmeter. One with a range of 0 to 3 V and the other with a range of 0 to 5 V.

Watch the video to learn how to read the respective voltmeter and how to record the reading.

How to read the electronic balance

Electronic balance (and beam balance) is used to measure mass. Below is a typical electronic balance we use in the lab. Look through the video to learn how to use and record the readings.

How to read the ammeter (updated)

In the lab, we usually use two types of ammeter of range 0 to 1 V and 0 to 3 V.

View the video below to learn how to read and how many decimal places to record for the current.

How to read digital micrometer screw gauge

Refer to this link on the analogue micrometer screw gauge
https://youtu.be/jqvYjaOUa20

Reading micrometer screw gauge practice
https://youtu.be/S1Mvb5kHnJg

How to read measuring cyclinder

Simple electric circuit set up

This simple circuit involves a resistance wire on the meter rule and the use of jockey tapping at different length L on the resistance wire.

Note that this is not a potential divider. Rather this set up works like a variable resistor (rheostat) in the circuit. When the switch is closed (jockey NOT tapping on resistance wire), there is no current flowing as voltmeter (infinity resistance) is connected in series with the ammeter and the battery. Hence the voltmeter is showing the battery’s electromotive force (emf) of 3.0 V.

When the switch is closed and the jockey is tapped on the resistance wire on the ruler, the longer the L (length of resistance wire), the higher the resistance of the circuit, the higher the potential difference (voltmeter) across the resistance wire and the smaller the current through the ammeter. Hence the tapping of the jockey on the resistance wire is similar to adjusting the resistance on the variable resistor.

(If you are wondering why the voltmeter is not showing the emf of the battery when the jockey touches the resistance wire L, it is because in reality there is internal resistance in the battery or even in the connecting copper wire. For olevel theory we assume no internal battery resistance or resistance in copper wire or ammeter).

To learn how to set up the experiment, refer to the video below.

Both ammeter and voltmeter have two terminals, (positive and negative). The conventional current must flow into the positive terminal (+) of the meters and out of the negative terminal (-).  If the connection is the opposite, the needle will deflect below the zero marking. Refer to the video below.

Sometimes, the connection terminals on the voltmeter and ammeter are different. Likewise, different types of wire with different connection heads have to be used. Refer to the video to see how are they connected in general.

Click here for another set up of a simple electrical circuit to determine the unknown resistor.

 

Setting up a retort stand and pendulum experiment

In this post, we will be going to the basics of setting up the retort stand and pendulum experiment. Most probably, this will be the first experiment which you will perform in the lab. Let’s start with the setting up the retort stand, boss and the clamp.

Next we will take a look at how you set the up the apparatus for the pendulum experiment.

How is the period affected by length, mass of bob, and angle of release? Click on this post to find out more.

Click here to see how to use a digital stopwatch.