Verified Solution Physics Units and Measurements

In an experiment to determine the acceleration due to gravity (g) using a simple pendulum, the formula used is T = 2π√(L/g). If the percentage error in the measurement of length (L) is 2% and in the time period (T) is 1%, what is the maximum percentage error in the calculated value of g?

3 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 13, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • A3%
  • B4%
  • C5%
  • D6%
Explanation

From T = 2π√(L/g), square both sides: T² = 4π² (L/g). Rearrange for g: g = (4π² L) / T². For percentage error, constants (4π²) don't contribute. So, (% error in g) = (% error in L) + 2 * (% error in T). (% error in g) = 2% + 2 * 1% = 2% + 2% = 4%.

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