Math Problem Statement
A car travels a distance 166m +-2m in 5.2s +-0.1. What is the best estimate of the speed of the car
Solution
To find the best estimate of the speed of the car, we can use the formula for speed:
Given:
- Distance
- Time
Best estimate of speed:
Now, we calculate the uncertainty in the speed.
Uncertainty in speed:
The relative uncertainty of the speed is the sum of the relative uncertainties of the distance and time:
Substituting values:
- Uncertainty in distance
- Uncertainty in time
Now, multiply this by the best estimate of speed:
Final result:
Thus, the best estimate of the speed of the car is .
Would you like more details or have any questions?
Here are five related questions you might explore:
- How does the uncertainty affect the accuracy of the result?
- How can we reduce uncertainty in both distance and time measurements?
- What would the speed be if the distance were 10 meters shorter?
- How would the speed change if the time increased by 0.2 seconds?
- What is the significance of relative uncertainties in real-world measurements?
Tip: Always aim to minimize uncertainties by improving the precision of your measurements for better accuracy in calculated results.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Kinematics
Uncertainty in Measurements
Relative Uncertainty
Formulas
Speed = Distance / Time
Relative Uncertainty: Δv/v = Δd/d + Δt/t
Uncertainty in Speed: Δv = Relative Uncertainty × Speed
Theorems
Propagation of Uncertainties
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12
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