What contributes the most to the error in the density of a cylinder?

In summary, the question is asking which of the three quantities - mass, diameter, and height - would contribute the most to the error in the density of a cylinder, given that they are all measured with the same percentage error. The equation for cylinder density is ρ=4*M/(pi*d^2*h) and since mass and height are not squared, their errors would remain the same. However, since the diameter is squared, its error would also be squared, making it the most significant contributor to the overall error in density. This is because the contribution of an error due to a variable is calculated using the equation: ##{\Delta \rho \over \rho} = {{\partial \rho \over \partial x} \
  • #1
Violet x3
2
0

Homework Statement



If the three quantities; mass, diameter, and height for a cylinder are measured with the same percentage error, which would contribute the most to the error in the density?

Homework Equations



ρ=M/V
ρ=4*M/(pi*d^2*h)

The Attempt at a Solution



so, I tried to answer it like this:
since the equation for the cylinder density is ρ=2*M/(pi*d^2*h)
since the mass and the height aren't squared the error would remain the same, however the diameter is squared which means the error is squared as well.. so it's the diameter!

BUT my friend says since ρ(density)=M/V , then mass would contribute the most not diameter ;O

HELP PLEASE , I don't know which answer to put in our report D:?!

::
 
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  • #2
You are right, it's the diameter.
 
  • #3
REALLY?!
THANKS ALOT!
YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HARD WAS IT FOR ME TO GET AN ANSWER FOR THIS QUESTION!

::

Umm, well ..is it the diameter because of the reason i stated =o?
 
  • #4
Yes, but the error isn't exactly squared.
 
  • #5
Yes.In more detail, the error percentage is ##{\Delta \rho \over \rho} \times 100\%##.

The contribution of an error due to some variable x is:
$$\left({\Delta \rho \over \rho}\right)_{\text{due to x}} = {{\partial \rho \over \partial x} \Delta x \over \rho}$$

Do you know how to calculate that for M, d, and h?
 

Related to What contributes the most to the error in the density of a cylinder?

1. What are the main factors that contribute to the error in the density of a cylinder?

The main factors that contribute to the error in the density of a cylinder are measurement errors, sample size, temperature, pressure, and the accuracy of the measuring instruments used.

2. How does measurement error affect the density of a cylinder?

Measurement errors, such as incorrect readings or human error during measurement, can lead to inaccuracies in the calculated density of a cylinder. This can occur due to the use of imprecise measuring instruments or inconsistencies in the measuring technique.

3. Why does sample size play a role in the error of cylinder density?

The sample size used for density calculations can impact the accuracy of the results. A larger sample size typically leads to a more precise measurement of density, while a smaller sample size may result in a higher chance of random errors and thus a higher overall error in the density calculation.

4. How do temperature and pressure affect the error in cylinder density?

Both temperature and pressure can influence the density of a cylinder, which in turn can contribute to the overall error. Changes in temperature and pressure can alter the volume of the cylinder, thus affecting the calculated density. Therefore, it is important to keep these variables constant during measurements to minimize error.

5. Can the accuracy of the measuring instruments used affect the error in cylinder density?

Yes, the accuracy of the measuring instruments used can have a significant impact on the error in cylinder density. If the instruments used are not precise or calibrated properly, it can lead to inaccurate measurements and ultimately contribute to the error in the calculated density of the cylinder.

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