Skip to content
    Physics A-Level

    Experimental measurement and uncertainty

    What Experimental measurement and uncertainty means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Experimental measurement and uncertainty

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Experimental measurement and uncertainty in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Repeating measurements and calculating a mean, and considering uncertainties in length, time and mass, improves reliability.
    AQA · Simple harmonic systems (A-level only) (study guide)
    Measuring across several fringe spacings and dividing reduces uncertainty in the fringe spacing.
    AQA · Interference (study guide)

    Topics that use Experimental measurement and uncertainty

    Related terms

    Using Experimental measurement and uncertainty in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Physics questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Physics A-Level terms