Definitions Flashcards

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1
Q

Random error

A

Equally likely to be +ve or -ve. Gives a spread in results

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2
Q

Systematic error

A

Not revealed or reduced by simple repetition of measurements

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3
Q

Gaussian distribution

A

~68% of measurements in 1 s.d., 95% within 2 s.d.

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4
Q

Standard deviation formula

A
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5
Q

Error in the mean

A
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6
Q

Combining errors

A
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7
Q

Static and dynamic friction

A
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8
Q

Work done by a force

A
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9
Q

Potential energy

A
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10
Q

Potential energy and equilibrium

A
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11
Q

Newton’s Laws of Motion

A
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12
Q

Inertial frames

A
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13
Q

Speed of zero momentum frame

A
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14
Q

Centre of mass of a system

A
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15
Q

Moment vector

A
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16
Q

Moment of inertia (sum)

A
17
Q

Moment of inertia (integration)

A
18
Q

Parallel axes theorem

A
19
Q

Perpendicular axes theorem (for a lamina in the x-y plane)

A
20
Q

Describe the Michelson-Morley experiment

A

Optical interferometer used to measure speed of light in perpendicular directions by finding a shift in the interference pattern

If aether was real, light should be faster in one direction than the other, since the earth is moving

No shift was seen, therefore no evidence for aether. SPEED OF LIGHT THE SAME IN ALL REFERENCE FRAMES!

21
Q

Stellar aberration

A

Light observed from distant stars appears to be coming in at an angle. Explained by relativity.

22
Q

Evidence of special relativity

A

Muons reach Earth’s surface before decaying despite small lifetimes - time dilation

Michelson-Morley - no aether

Magnetic force between wires can be explained by modifying laws of electromagnetism with relativity

Clocks in space drift relative to earth - special and general relativistic effect

23
Q

Einstein’s Postulates

A
  1. All the laws of physics are the same in any inertial frame
  2. The speed of light in a vacuum is the same for all observers
24
Q

Lorentz transformations

A
25
Q

SR transformation matrix

A
26
Q

Space-time invariant

A