How do you measure an object's length with a ruler when one end can be aligned with zero?
Place the ruler alongside the object, align one end with zero, and read the scale at the other end.
Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) Physics 0972 (Extended) (2026–2028) · 1.1
Revise Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) Physics 0972 (Extended) (2026–2028) specification point 1.1, Physical quantities and measurement techniques, with free active-recall flashcards. Flip through the set or review every question and answer below.
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How do you measure an object's length with a ruler when one end can be aligned with zero?
Place the ruler alongside the object, align one end with zero, and read the scale at the other end.
How do you find an object's length if neither end is aligned with zero on a ruler?
Subtract the scale reading at one end from the reading at the other end.
How should you view a ruler's scale to reduce parallax error?
Read it from directly above the mark.
What must accompany a numerical length measurement when it is recorded?
Its unit.
What does a measuring cylinder measure, and what does it use to do so?
It measures liquid volume using a graduated scale.
How should a measuring cylinder be positioned before taking a reading?
Upright on a level surface.
At what eye position should you read a measuring cylinder’s scale?
At eye level.
Where should you read a liquid’s curved meniscus in a measuring cylinder?
At the bottom of the meniscus.
What must be included when recording a volume measured with a cylinder?
The volume and its unit, such as millilitres or cubic centimetres.
What is a time interval?
The elapsed time between two events.
How can a clock be used to find a time interval between two events?
Record the time at each event, then subtract the start reading from the end reading.
How can a digital timer measure the interval between two events?
Start it at the first event and stop it at the second. It displays the elapsed time directly.
What is an appropriate unit for recording a time interval?
Seconds.
How can you find the average length of a small identical item by measuring several items together?
Place the items end to end, measure their combined length, and divide by the number of items.
How can you find the average time per event for a short repeated event?
Measure the total time for a counted number of events, then divide by the number of events.
What is the period of a pendulum?
The time for one complete oscillation.
Why measure several equal repetitions together when finding a small length or short time interval?
The larger total reduces the effect of reading or timing uncertainty on the average.