A physical quantity is measured as 12.345 ± 0.005 units. The relative error in this measurement is approximately: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

A physical quantity is measured as 12.345 ± 0.005 units. The relative error in this measurement is approximately:
A. 4%
B. 0.04%
C. 0.4%
D. 0.004%
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Relative error = (Absolute error) / (Measured value) = 0.005 / 12.345 ≈ 0.000405. Converting to percentage: 0.000405 × 100% ≈ 0.0405% ≈ 0.04%. Relative error quantifies precision independent of measurement scale. Absolute error (±0.005) indicates instrument precision. This concept is vital for comparing measurement reliability across different magnitudes. Memory tip: Percentage error = (Absolute error / True value) × 100. Competitive exams often test this calculation with varying significant figures to assess numerical proficiency.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
The efficiency of an ideal Carnot engine operating between two temperatures T1 (source) and T2 (sink) is given by:
A. T2 / (T1 - T2)
B. 1 - (T1/T2)
C. (T1 - T2) / T2
D. 1 - (T2/T1)

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
The thermal efficiency (η) of a reversible Carnot engine depends exclusively on the absolute temperatures of the hot source (T1) and the cold sink (T2). The formula is η = 1 - (T2/T1), or (T1 - T2) / T1. Temperatures must be in Kelvin. It shows no engine can be 100% efficient unless the sink is at absolute zero.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
A wave has frequency 50 Hz and wavelength 2 m. Its speed is:
A. 200 m/s
B. 25 m/s
C. 50 m/s
D. 100 m/s

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Wave speed v = frequency (f) × wavelength (λ). Thus v = 50 Hz × 2 m = 100 m/s. This fundamental wave equation applies to all periodic waves (sound, light, water). Memory aid: 'v = fλ – the universal wave equation'. Competitive exams frequently test this direct calculation. Always ensure units: Hz = s⁻¹, so (s⁻¹)×m = m/s, correct for speed. This problem assesses basic wave property understanding, crucial for sound and light topics.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
In a nuclear reactor, control rods are made of materials that:
A. Reflect neutrons
B. Absorb neutrons
C. Emit neutrons
D. Moderate neutrons

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Control rods (made of cadmium, boron, or hafnium) absorb neutrons to regulate the fission chain reaction rate. Inserting rods deeper reduces neutron population, slowing reaction; withdrawing them increases reaction rate. Moderators (water, graphite) slow neutrons to thermal energies for efficient fission. Memory aid: 'Control rods = neutron absorbers; Moderators = neutron slowers'. This application question tests knowledge of reactor components, common in competitive exams. Always distinguish roles: fuel (fissionable material), moderator, control rods, coolant.

This question belongs to: Science Physics