Uncertainty & Error Propagation Lab
Run single-reading, repeat-data, propagation, and final-reporting cases with guided feedback on rule choice, rounding, and exam wording.
Learning goals
- Assess random, systematic and propagated uncertainties.
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Change one variable at a time and watch the model respond.
Lab setup
Scaffolding
Practice run
Choose a mode and checkpoint count when you want scoring.
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Observation logCompare what changed0 saved
Change one variable, save another reading, then compare the evidence.
Scroll sideways to compare readings.
Fair-test check
Study lensEstimate absolute uncertainty from a single reading or repeated readings.
Try this
Treat the question like a lab workflow: estimate the reading uncertainty first, then only switch to percentage rules when the algebra demands it.
Learn to
- Estimate absolute uncertainty from a single reading or repeated readings.
- Choose the correct uncertainty rule for sums, products, quotients, powers, and roots.
- Convert cleanly between absolute and percentage uncertainty before reporting a final answer.
Exam transfer
Governing idea
For sums and differences, combine absolute uncertainties. For products, quotients, and powers, combine fractional or percentage uncertainties using the course's maximum-uncertainty rules.
Model boundary
These classroom propagation rules estimate a worst-case uncertainty. They are not a statistical confidence interval and do not model correlations between measurements.
Avoid this trap
Do not add percentage uncertainties for a sum, or absolute uncertainties for a product. Match the uncertainty form to the algebra first.
How to explore
Train the full Paper 4 uncertainty workflow: estimate, convert, propagate, and report answers with matching precision.
Predict the outcome, change one variable at a time, then interpret the result. Completion records participation only and does not award mastery.
About this activity
Run single-reading, repeat-data, propagation, and final-reporting cases with guided feedback on rule choice, rounding, and exam wording. A text explanation and no-JavaScript route remain available.
How this activity affects progress
Course and syllabus information
- Course
- GCE A-Level H2 Physics
- Edition
- GCE A-Level H2 Physics 2027