Question

what factors do you think may cause the experimental value to be different from the accepted value

Answer 1

Solution:

Experimental value may be different from the accepted value due to different types of errors involved in measurement.

Different types of errors involved in measurement are :

1. Instrumental errors: This type of error arise due to imperfect design or calibration of the measuring instrument. For example, a thermometer reads as the boiling point of water due to imperfect calibration.
2. Imperfect experimental technique: Improper procedure or steps are followed while taking the measurement. External conditions like temperature, pressure may also affect the experimental result.
3. Personal errors: This type of errors arise due to a person's bias, lack of proper setting of the apparatus or carelessness of the individual. While taking reading one should place his head or eyes properly.
4. Least count error: The smallest value that can be measured by the measuring instrument is called its least count. For example a vernier calliper has the least count as 0.01 cm. Least count error can be minimized using instrument of higher precision.
5. Random error: These errors occur irregularly and hence are random with respect to sign and size. Environmental conditions, improper fluctuations in voltage or current may cause random errors.