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Date May 2019 Marks available 2 Reference code 19M.3.SL.TZ2.3
Level Standard level Paper Paper 3 Time zone 2
Command term Determine Question number 3 Adapted from N/A

Question

A student uses a Young’s double-slit apparatus to determine the wavelength of light emitted by a monochromatic source. A portion of the interference pattern is observed on a screen.

The distance D from the double slits to the screen is measured using a ruler with a smallest scale division of 1 mm.

The fringe separation s is measured with uncertainty ± 0.1 mm.

The slit separation d has negligible uncertainty.

The wavelength is calculated using the relationship   λ = s d D .

When d = 0.200 mm, s = 0.9 mm and D = 280 mm, determine the percentage uncertainty in the wavelength.

[2]
a.

Explain how the student could use this apparatus to obtain a more reliable value for λ. 

[2]
b.

Markscheme

Evidence of  Δ s s AND Δ D D used   

«add fractional/% uncertainties»

obtains 11 % (or 0.11) OR 10 % (or 0.1) ✔

a.

ALTERNATIVE 1:

measure the combined width for several fringes

OR

repeat measurements ✓

take the average

OR

so the «percentage» uncertainties are reduced ✓

ALTERNATIVE 2:

increase D «hence s»

OR

Decrease d

so the «percentage» uncertainties are reduced ✓

Do not accept answers which suggest using different apparatus.

b.

Examiners report

A very easy question about percentage uncertainty which most candidates got completely correct. Many candidates gave the uncertainty to 4 significant figures or more. The process used to obtain the final answer was often difficult to follow.

a.

The most common correct answer was the readings should be repeated and an average taken. Another common answer was that D could be increased to reduce uncertainties in s. The best candidates knew that it was good practice to measure many fringe spacings and find the mean value. Quite a few candidates incorrectly stated that different apparatus should be used to give more precise results.

b.

Syllabus sections

Core » Topic 1: Measurements and uncertainties » 1.2 – Uncertainties and errors
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Core » Topic 1: Measurements and uncertainties
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