You are on page 1of 3

Members: Date Performed: December 13, 2010

1 Africano, Jasmine Grace G. * Date Submitted: January 3, 2010


2 Arenos, Carl Lawrence
3 Bagazin, Preciuos G.
4 Barona, Angela Marie M.
5 Bautista, Maureen
6 Buquid, Juene Adrianne

Group 1, 2APH
Experiment No. 1: Vernier caliper and Micrometer caliper

ABSTRACT :

Measuring length is fundamental to our everyday life, and there are many tools in use to
measure length such as a precision rule (ruler), a vernier caliper, and a micrometer caliper.
Since these instruments offer varying degrees of precision (and accuracy), one of the objectives
of this experiment is to gain insight into making and reporting measurements and calculations
with the proper precision (significant digits). The materials used in this experiment are: copper
cube, glass marble, iron washer, vernier caliper, and micrometer caliper. Density and Percentage
Error of each material were then computed using the values obtained.

Guide Questions:
1. Differentiate the vernier and micrometer scales.

 Vernier scale uses a slider while the micrometer has a rotary handle
 The micrometer is more accurate (0.01mm) than the vernier (0.05mm)
 The micrometer can only measure the outer dimensions of an object while the vernier is
capable of measuring the outer and inner dimensions including the depth

2. Draw the figure for the micrometer readings below:


i. 3.68 mm
ii. 1.59 mm

3. State some of the errors that one might make in measuring length using both the vernier and
micrometer callipers.
Errors can result from physical damage to the device, or incorrect testing and
setting, of larger micrometers in particular. Errors can also be experienced by temperature
variations. Using a large micrometer can mean considerable error just from the warmth of
the hand. Measuring hot items also produces errors. Wear is yet another possible source
of errors. Inaccurate interpretation of a measurement is possible, with either instrument.
Parallax and human errors can creep in. 

The most common source of error in Vernier Calipers and Micrometers is “Zero
Error.” When the jaws are closed, the vernier zero mark must coincide with the zero mark
on its fixed main scale. If not, one must note the reading. This reading is called “zero
error”. The zero error is of two types: the positive zero error and the negative zero error.
Positive zero error occurs when the zero on the vernier scale is to the right of the main
scale. Therefore, the zero correction should be subtracted from the reading which is
measured. On the other hand, Negative zero error occurs when the zero on the vernier
scale is to the left of the main scale; thus, the zero correction should be added from the
reading which is measured.

4. Determine the % error for an observed value of 1.112x10-5 if the standard value is 1.117x10-5

% error=

% error =

% error =

% error = 0.4476%

You might also like