Page 33 - Physics

Measurement

Chapter Two

Measurement

Introducti on

Measurement is a word used in everyday life. We measure a piece of land in
hectares or acres, and the circumference of a playground using a tape measure.
In physics, accurate and precise measurements enable the collection of useful
experimental data that can be tested against theoretical predictions to enhance
the development of physical theories. In this chapter, you will learn the concept
of measurement of physical quantities, the basic apparatus/equipment used in
measurement and how to use them. The competencies developed will enable
you to deal with measurements in different context.

Think
how our life could be without measurement

Concept of measurement quantities. For example, when you want

The word ‘measurement’ comes from the to determine the length of a table, you
Greek word ‘metron’ which means ‘limited use a ruler or a tape measure, which has
proportion’. It is our common experience predefi ned units, to compare with the table.
that, if you want to buy a trouser, the The number of units that match the length
information that a shopkeeper fi rst wants of the table becomes the numerical value
to know is the size of the trouser that fi ts representing the length of the table. Every
your waist. If you do not know your size, measurement has two parts which are:
he or she will take a tape and measure the 1. A number or numerical part that gives
size of your waist. The act of fi nding the the result of the comparison; and
size of a given quantity is referred to as 2. A unit part which identifi es the particular
measurement. unit used to make the measurement.

Measurement involves the process of
assigning a numerical value and a unit In the unit part, the focus is on the standard
to an observation or event. It is done unit (Systeme Internationale or International
by comparing the known and unknown System Units-SI units) though, other units

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