Physics 1101 Experiment 1 Pre-Laboratory Assignment
Name and PSID_________________________________ TA___________________
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You must show and explain all work neatly to receive credit. Please show each step for
calculations. YOU MUST TURN IN THIS SHEET to have your assignment graded.
1. (a) Define density and state its units in the SI system of units. (b) What does a negative zero
reading on a Vernier caliper mean? (7pts)
2. (a) Calculate the average value for the following experimentally determined numbers: 2.78,
2.53, 2.36, 2.81, and 2.37. (b) If the standard value is 2.66, what is the percent error in your
measurement? All numbers have units of ๐๐. Please be careful with significant figures (ppt with
instructions is available on Canvas). (8pts)
3. A rock is placed in a graduated cylinder containing water, and the cylinder is covered to avoid
evaporation. The following day the water level has dropped by 5.65 ๐๐. No one has had access
to the cylinder, and the cylinder has no leaks. What is the most likely explanation for what
happened? (5pts)
