What is the approximate uncertainty in the area of a circle

In summary, the approximate uncertainty in the area of a circle with a radius of 5.5×10^4 cm is ±500 cm, with a possible range of 5.45x10^4 cm to 5.55x10^4 cm. This is based on the information provided, as the smallest and largest possible values for both the radius and area were not specified.
  • #1
eddiedowen
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Homework Statement


Approximate uncertainty in the area of a circle of radius 5.5×10^4 cm?


Homework Equations


πr^2



The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
What are the smallest and largest possible values for the radius? What are the smallest and largest possible values for the area?
 
  • #3
It doesn't say. That's all the information it gives. That's why I was confused.
 
  • #4
Well if the radius is stated to two significant figure as 5.5×10^4cm then the uncertainty is ±0.05x104cm (or ±500cm) and the possible range is 5.45x104cm to 5.55x104cm.
 
  • #5
People, please report members that do not fill out the template, it is against our rules for members to request help without completing the entire template, especially the part explaining what they've already done to soleve the problems themselves.
 
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Related to What is the approximate uncertainty in the area of a circle

1. What is the formula for calculating the area of a circle?

The formula for calculating the area of a circle is A = πr², where r is the radius of the circle and π is approximately 3.14.

2. How do you find the radius of a circle from its diameter?

The radius of a circle can be found by dividing the diameter by 2. This is because the diameter is equal to 2 times the radius.

3. What is meant by "approximate uncertainty" in the area of a circle?

Approximate uncertainty refers to the potential error or margin of error in a measurement or calculation. In the case of the area of a circle, it is the range of values within which the exact area may fall due to limitations of measurement or calculation.

4. How do you calculate the uncertainty in the area of a circle?

The uncertainty in the area of a circle can be calculated by determining the uncertainty in the measurement of the radius (or diameter) and using that uncertainty in the formula for the area of a circle. For example, if the radius is measured to be 10 cm with an uncertainty of ±0.5 cm, the uncertainty in the area would be ±(3.14)(10.5)² – (3.14)(9.5)² = ±32.97 cm².

5. What factors can contribute to the uncertainty in the area of a circle?

The uncertainty in the area of a circle can be affected by various factors such as the precision of the measuring instrument, human error in measurement, and assumptions made in the calculation. Additionally, if the circle is not a perfect shape or if the measurement is taken at an angle, it can also contribute to the uncertainty in the area.

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