2015

PHYSICS FORM 4 ~PRACTICALS

By Ben O. Mutalemwa
B.Sc. (Ed.)
1/1/2015
 INTRODUCTION

This is a laboratory guide for practical work in Physics. It is indeed user friendly and if used properly,
it will help one to acquire knowledge and skills on how to facilitate practical work in physics.
This practical Manual pamphlet should enable educators to guide learners in doing the experiments on
fundamental laws and principles encountered on their daily physics work, to measure a wide variety
of physical constants and also gaining experience of a variety of measuring instruments and practice
for their National examination preparation which I suggest to be started as earlier as in form 2 class.
These are few out of many recommended points to be considered in practical work.
 Read the question and know exact what is required to be measured that I, identify the
variables to be measured if possible re-read the instructions.
 Draw a table of results for the variables found including the appropriate units
 Plot the graph required and use it to respond the questions accordingly

QUALITY OF GOOD GRAPH

(i) The heading or Title of the graph should be written at the top of the graph paper and within
the graph paper in capital letter
(ii) A scale should be written at the upper right corner of the graph paper. The abbreviated terms
for Horizontal and Vertical components are HC and VC respectively.
e.g. V.S:- 1cm represents 5sec2
H.S:- 1cm represents 0.1m
 NOTE: Avoid 1cm = 5sec2
1cm : 5sec2
1cm → 5sec2
(iii) Axes, label the axes with their proper units
(iv) Transfer the point from the table of results using a dot with circle or + by using a sharp
pencil
(v) Draw your best line or curve. A best one is determined by how close it passes through or
very close to many points on your graph.
(vi) In case a slope is needed to be calculated, show your slope indication in dots.
(vii) Your final results must be given to a sensible order of accuracy and it must state units
concerned.

SOURCEES OF ERRORS IN THE EXPERIMENTS

Environmental sources
Air resistance to the oscillating bodies like a motion of a pendulum bob, unstable temperature,
variation of light intensity during light experiments, wind blowing when trying to balance things like
questions of motion etc.

Measurement sources
Errors caused by instruments measuring length which may include zero error, poorly manufactured
items caused by manufacturing companies.

Human caused errors

Like time reaction (errors in starting and stopping a stop watch)
Large angle of displacement of the bob which may disturb to and fro movement of the bob
Parallax error in reading the measurements from different instruments like ammeter, meter rule etc.

Graph caused errors

Uses of blunt pencil in drawing graph
Too much estimation when drawing graph and Taking very close points when calculating slopes.
Approximations when transferring data e.g. transferring data from table to graph.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 1
 Minimizing Errors
Environmental sources
 Wind blow can be minimized by finding a position with minimal wind below.
Measurement sources
 Using identical springs, or a good and well calibrated instrument and taking note on zero error.
 Uses of spring which are strong/appropriate and within a prescribed spring constant
Human caused errors
 Parallax error can be minimized by reading perpendicular the mark being read
 Errors can be minimized by taking several readings and find the average of the data.
Graph caused errors
 Use a sharp pencil, transfer the data correctly, avoid too much approximations

Points to be Noted when doing an Experiment

Some Experiments are done as a result of circumstances and needs of the conditions available at the
moment. But it is very Important to know, the following before attempting any practical exercise:-
 Topic
 Aim of the experiment
 Apparatus list and their setting
 Procedures involved
 Table of results
 Theory
 Graph
 Calculations
 Possible errors and how to minimize them
Any equation can be manipulated into either of the four forms of linear equations as follows:-
 y = mx
 y = mx + c
 y = mx – c
 y = -mx + c
Graphs of the Equations Mentioned
(i) y = mx (ii) y = mx + c

(iii) y = mx – c (iv) y = -mx + c

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 2
 Laboratory Work 01
You are required to determine the density of the material of a two hundred shilling coin
Proceed as follows;
(a) Given the following apparatus a Vernier calipers , micrometer screw gauge, a weighing
balance (beam balance) and 20 coins (two hundred shilling each)
(b) Measure the diameter d of one two hundred shilling by using a Vernier calipers (in cm)
(c) Measure the thickness t of one hundred shilling by using a micro meter screw gauge (in cm)
d
t

(d) Measure the mass of 2 coins provided by placing them on a beam balance and record them in
gram
(e) Keep on adding coins onto the balance to 4, 6, 8, and finally 10 coins in each time record the
mass of each respective numbers of coins on the balance
(f) Tabulate your results as shown below;
Numbers of coins n Mass coins (in grams)
2
4
6
8
10
(i) Plot a graph of masses of coins (vertical axis) against numbers of coins (horizontal axis)
(ii) Determine the slope S of the graph
(iii) Find the density of D of the material of the coin (in gram per centimeter) given that
4S
D
 .t.d 2
(iv) If one coin is immersed in an eureka can full of water , what mass of water will overflow
(Assume water has a density of 1g/cm3 and π = 3.14)

Laboratory Work 02
You are provided with a test-tube with millimetre scale extending over its entire length. Put sufficient
lead shots into the test tube to ensure that it just floats vertically in liquid, L, contained in a tall
beaker. Keeping the floating test-tube away from the side of the beaker, read and record the height ho
of the test- tube that is submerged as shown in fig above

Drop 4 clips into the test-tube and record the new height, h of the test-test that is submerged. Record
five more heights by having 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 clips respectively dropped into the test-tube. For
each new height, h, calculate (h - ho).
(a) Tabulate N, h and (h - ho) where N is the number of clips dropped into the test-tube.
(b) Plot a graph of N against (h - ho).
(c) Determine the slope G of your graph
(d) Measure and record the external diameter D of the test-test.
4𝐺𝛽
(e) Find the value of 𝐷2 where 𝛽 is the average mass in grams of a clip

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 3
 Laboratory Work 03
You are provided with the following measuring cylinder, water and five (05) glass marbles.
Proceed as follows
(a) Measure a mass of one glass marble provided and record it as mo
(b) Half fill the measuring cylinder with water and record the volume of water as V o in cm3
(c) Immerse one glass marble as shown in the diagram below, and then record the reading
on the measuring cylinder as v1. Determine the volume of water displaced as Vs

(d) Repeat the procedure (c) for numbers of glass marble “n” equal to 2,3,4 and 5
(e) Tabulate your results in suitable table
(f) Plot a graph of Vs against n
(g) State the nature of the graph
(h) Calculate the slope of the graph G
(i) Find the value of Q
𝑀𝑜
Given that 𝑄 =
𝐺
(j) What is the physical meaning of Q?
(k) What is the aim of this experiment?

Laboratory Work 04
The aim of this experiment is to determine the density of the liquid provided by using a
relative density bottle.
Proceed as follows

(a) Measure the mass of the empty and dry density bottle shown in diagram (a) above
and call it as m1
(b) Fill the bottle with liquid A, insert a stopper, wipe away the excess liquid using a
piece of cloth or blotting paper and weigh again its mass as m2 as in diagram (b)
(c) Empty the bottle and rinse several times with water, fill it with water, insert stopper
and wipe away excess water using a piece or blotting paper and weigh again its mass,
m3 as shown in the diagram (c).
(d) Tabulate your values
(e) Calculate the value of R
𝑀2 − 𝑀1
Given that 𝑅 =
𝑀3 − 𝑀1
(f) Determine the value of 
Given that,  = 1000 x R
(g) What is the physical importance of  from (f) above?
(h) Name any two possible sources of error and their precautions to be taken.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 4
 LABORATORY WORK 05
You are provided with a measuring cylinder, Eureka can, a non-extensible thread, standard
masses, unknown mass labeled X and water.
Proceed as follows
(a) Pour water into eureka can until it is just beginning to overflow

(b) Hold a suitable measuring cylinder under the spout and immerse a standard mass of 50g into
eureka can as shown in the figure above. Water will pass through the spout and will be
collected by the measuring cylinder. Wait for it to drop until it starts to cease and take long
interval to drop. Record the reading of the water collected.
(c) Repeat the actions in b) above for standard masses of 100g, 150g, 200g and 250g.
(d) Repeat the procedures in b) above by substituting unknown mass labeled X.
(e) Tabulate your results showing the quantities as follows
Mass (g) 50 100 150 200 250 300 X
Volume (cm3)
(f) Plot a graph of mass against volume
(g) State the nature of the graph
(h) From the graph:
(i) Calculate the slope
(ii) What does the slope of the graph show?
(iii) Establish the formula governing the experiment
(iv) Determine the mass of the unknown block X
(i) State a possible error in this experiment and how can it be minimized?

LABORATORY WORK 06
The aim of this experiment is to verify the Archimedes’ principle
Proceed as follows
Fix the overflow can on a block of wood and place one beaker under the spout of the can. Pour water
into the can until it overflows through the spout to the beaker until the last drop.
Take a 100g mass W1 and hang it on the lower end of the spring balance by using a thin inextensible
cotton thread. Place an empty measuring cylinder on the spout of the can. Lower the 100g onto water
until it is totally immersed in a can as shown in the fig below

A thread Spout

Eureka can

A standard mass A measuring cylinder

Allow the overflowing water to run out via the spout to the measuring cylinder until the last drop.
Read and record the new reading on the spring balance W2 and also record the volume of water
collected in a measuring cylinder V
Repeat this procedure for the masses of 200g, 300g, 400g and 500g and tabulate your result as shown
below

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 5
Mass W1(g) Mass W2 (g) Up thrust volume Displaced weight
W1  W2 (cm3) of water =  x v
U  N  1000
100
100
200
300
400
500
Where  is the density of water and V is the volume of water displaced ( = 1g/cm3)
(a) Plot a graph of up thrust U versus displaced weight of water
(b) Find the slope of the graph
(c) Deduce the relationship between U and the weight of water displaced
(d) State the Archimedes’ principle using the relationship deduced in (c) above

LABORATORY WORK 07
You are provided with a metre ruler, a knife edge and two stings of length 100cm each, weight A of
masses 20g and weight B of unknown mass.
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Locate and record the centre of gravity G of the metre rule by balancing on the knife edge
(b) Suspend the 20g mass on the left hand side at 10cm mark and adjust the position of weight B on
the right hand side of the knife edge until the metre rule balances horizontally
(c) Read and record the values of distance of 20g mass and weight B as ‘a’ and ‘b’ respectively
(d) Repeat the procedure in (b) above when the 20g mass is at 15cm, 20cm, 25cm and 30cm
(e) Draw the diagram for your experiment
(f) Tabulate your results
(g) Plot a graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’ and state the nature of the graph.
(h) Determine the slope of the graph. Use the slope to calculate the mass of B
(i) Name and state the principle governing this experiment
(j) Suggest the aim of this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 08
The aim of this experiment is to determine the density of wood. You are provided with wooden bar, a
knife and a 100g weight
Proceed as follows;
(a) Locate the center of gravity C of the wooden bar by balancing freely about the knife edge
(b) Suspend the 100g mass on the wooden bar as shown in the fig below; 10cm from C adjust the
position of the knife edge to get a balance. Record the distance of the center of gravity C from
the knife edge as Y and distance between the knife edge and100g mass as X.

(c) Repeat procedures (b) and (c) above by increasing the distance of the 100g mass to 20cm, 30cm,
40cm, 50cm and 60cm respectively from the center of gravity C. Tabulate your results.
(d) Draw a graph of Y against X and calculate its gradient (G).
100
Calculate the mass (M) of the wooden bar given that gradient, G 
M
(e) Measure the length  , width w and thickness t of the wooden bar and hence calculate the density
of wood given that:-
M
Density of wood,  
wt

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 6
 LABORATORY WORK 09
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of a metre rule by balancing it on a knife edge.

Procedure
(a) Let W represent the mass of the ruler, securely fix 100g brass weight labelled W1 underneath
the 70 cm mark of the ruler. The flat base of the weight being in contact with the ruler
(b) Attach a small loop of thread to the second 50g weight labelled W2 and suspend this mass at a
distance X, from the zero mark end of the ruler.
(c) Using the value of X indicated on the table below, balance the ruler on the knife edge and
note the distance Y of the knife edge from the zero end of the ruler
Table of results
X (cm) 15 20 30 40 50 60
Y (cm)
i. Plot the graph of Y (vertical axis) against X (horizontal axis)
ii. Deduce the value of W, given the equation of the graph as:-
−50𝑔
𝑌= 𝑥+𝐾
150𝑔 + 𝑊

LABORATORY WORK 10
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of a 1m rule by balancing it on a knife edge.

Procedures
(a) Let W represent the mass of the ruler, securely fix 100g brass weight labelled W1 underneath
the 80 cm mark of the ruler. The flat base of the weight being in contact with the ruler
(b) Attach a small loop of thread to the second 50g weight labelled W2 and suspend this mass at a
distance X, from the zero mark end of the ruler.
(c) Using the value of X indicated on the table below, balance the ruler on the knife edge and
note the distance Y of the knife edge from the zero end of the ruler
(d) Using a Vernier caliper measure the length (l), thickness (t) and width (h) of the ruler
Table of results
X (cm) 15 20 30 40 50 60
Y (cm)
iii. Plot the graph of Y (vertical axis) against X (horizontal axis)
iv. Find the gradient of the graph and the intercept on the Y – axis
v. Deduce the value of W, given the equation of the graph as
50𝑔
𝑌= 𝑥+𝐾
150𝑔 + 𝑊
vi. Deduce its density, (d) given that:-
𝑊
ɗ=
𝑙𝑥𝑡𝑥ℎ

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 7
 LABORATORY WORK 11
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of a given dry cell, size “A”
You are provided with a dry cell, a knife edge, two weights 50g and 20g and a metre rule
Proceed as follows;
(a) Locate and note the center of gravity C of the metre rule by balancing on the knife edge
(b) Suspend the 50g mass on one side of the metre rule and 20g together with a dry cell on the other
side of the metre rule adjusting their position until the metre rule balances horizontally as shown
in the fi below

(c) By fixing a = 5cm from Find its corresponding length, b from C

(d) Repeat and tabulate your results using a = 10cm, 15cm, 20cm and 25cm.
(e) Draw a graph of “a” against “b” and calculate the slope G
20  X
(f) Calculate X from equation G 
50
LABORATORY WORK 12
The aim of this experiment is to determine the density of metre rule by balancing it on a knife edge.
Proceed as follows
(a) Balance the metre rule on a pivot and its center of mass call it C as seen below and note
its mark.

(b) Now, shift the pivot a distance “A” which is 2.5cm to the right and adjust a 50g mass
block tied on thread until it balances horizontally again. Note the distance “B” in cm from
the pivot to the mass block

(c) Repeat procedure B for the values of “A” equals to 5cm, 7.5cm and 10cm and every time
recording their corresponding values of “B”
(d) Using a vernier caliper measure the length (l) thickness (t) and width (h) of the given
metre rule
(i) Table of results
“A” (cm) 2.5 5 7.5 10
“B” (cm)
(ii) Plot the graph of A (vertical axis) against B (horizontal axis)
(iii) Find the gradient of the graph and state the nature of the graph
(iv) Deduce the value of W from part b above, given the equation of the graph as
50𝑔
A= 𝑊 B
(v) Deduce its density using
𝑊 𝑔
Density (ɗ) = ⁄
𝑙 𝑥 𝑡 𝑥 ℎ 𝑐𝑚3
Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 8
 LABORATORY WORK 13
In this experiment you are required to determine the density of liquid L2 relative to that of liquid L1
and the mass, M of the metre-rule provided.
Proceed as follows:-

(a) Locate and mark the centre of gravity G of the metre rule.
(b) Set up the apparatus as illustrated in the figure above, where: x =10 cm, W1 and W2 are brass
weights of mass 50 g and 20 g, respectively.
(c) With W2 totally immersed in liquid L1 and x = 10 cm, balance the metre-rule on the knife
edge by adjusting the position of W1. Read and record the distance, y. Repeat the procedure
for x = 20 cm, 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm and 54 cm. Tabulate the values of x and y.
(d) Replace liquid L1 by liquid L2 and then repeat the procedure outlined in (c) above.
(e) Plot a graph of y against x using the table obtained in (c).
(i) Read and record C1 the value of y when x = 0. Calculate 10C1, which is equal to the mass
of the metre-rule.
(ii) Find the slope, S1 of the graph.
(iii) Find the value of 𝜆1 given that 𝜆1 = 0.4 - S1
(f) Plot a graph of y against x using the table obtained in (d).
(i) Find the slope S2 of this graph.
(ii) Find the value of 𝜆2 given that 𝜆2 = 0.4 - S2.
(iii) Evaluate the ratio 𝜆1 /𝜆1 which is equal to the density of liquid L2 relative to that of
liquid L1.
(g) Discuss sources of errors in this experiment.

LABORATORY WORK 14
You are provided with a uniform metre rule with a hole drilled at 50cm mark, steel knitting needle,
unknown mass M of a dry cell size D, known mass W (100g) two weighing pans or two pieces of
threads, retort stand and clamp.
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Locate and record the Centre of gravity, C of the ruler by balancing the ruler on the clamped
knitting needle and ensure that the ruler balances in a horizontal position
(b) Suspend unknown weight M at 10cm mark and adjust the position of w on the other side of O
so that the ruler balances in a horizontal position
(c) Measure the distances M and W from O as X and Y respectively
(d) Draw the diagram for this experiment
(e) Repeat procedures (b) and (c) above with M suspended from 15cm, 20cm, 25cm and 30cm
marks. Tabulate your results
(f) Plot a graph of Y against X
(g) State the nature of the graph
(h) Read and record the values of Y when X = 17.5cm
(i) Calculate the slope G of the graph
(j) Find the value of M given that the equation representing the graph is M = GW, where W is
given
(k) Mention and state the principle governing this experiment
(l) State a possible source of error in this experiment
(m) What is the aim of this experiment?

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 9
 LABORATORY WORK 15
You are provided with a metre rule, a knife edge, and two strings of length 100cm each and two
weights W1 and W2 of masses 50g and 100 g respectively.
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Balance a metre rule on a knife edge, put a mark and write G and the balancing point using a
piece of chalk or a pencil. Measure and record the length 1, width w and thickness t of a metre
rule using a vernier caliper.
(b) Place the metre rule on a knife edge so that the knife edge is at 60cm of your metre rule (see
figure (a). Suspend weight W2 of 100g on the right hand side of the knife edge. Adjust W2
until the metre rule balances horizontally. Read and record lengths “c” and “b” as seen in
Figure (a)

(c) Suspend weight W1 of 50g on the left hand side of the knife edge at the position 47 cm and
adjust weight W2 until the metre rule balances horizontally as seen in Figure (b). Read and
record the lengths “a” and “b”

(d) Repeat the procedures in (c) by adjusting the position of W1 to the left at the interval of 3cm
to obtain other four (4) readings.
(e) Tabulate your results as show in Table 1
a (cm)
b (cm)
(f) Plot a graph of “b” against “a”
(g) What is the nature of the graph?
(h) Calculate the slope S of the graph.
(i) Read the b-intercept, given that:-
𝑊𝑐
𝑏 = 𝑆𝑎 +
𝑊2
𝑊𝑐
(j) What does 𝑊 represent?
2
(k) Calculate the value of W using the relation
𝑊𝑐
𝑊2 =
9.5𝑐𝑚
(l) What does W represent?
(m) Find the value of the ration P, using the equation:-
𝑙𝑥𝑤𝑥𝑡
𝑃=
𝑚
Note: - Obtain the mass m of the rule by calculation.
(n) What is the physical meaning of the value of P?
(o) State a possible source of error in this experiment.
(p) How can you minimize error in (o) above?
(q) State the aim of this experiment.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 10
 LABORATORY WORK 16
The aim of this experiment is to verify the principle of moments for parallel forces
Proceed as follows;
(a) Find the center of mass of a meter rule by placing it on the knife edge. Find the balancing
point and put a mark on the point using a piece of chalk (or pencil).

(b) Suspend 100gf = W2 on the 10cm length on the right from the center of the mass G of the
meter rule. Suspend the50gf = W1 on the left hand side of G and adjust the position ofW1 until
the metre rule balances in a horizontal position.
(c) Read and record the length of “a” and “b” as shown in the fig above
(d) Repeat the process in (b) above with W2 on the length 12.5cm, 15.0cm, 17.5cm, 20.0cm,
22.5cm and 25cm. each time record the corresponding lengths “a” in the table below.
W1(gf) W2(gf) a(cm) b(cm) W1.a(gf-cm) W2.b(gf-cm)
50 100 10.0
12.5
15.0
17.5
20.0
(e) (i) Complete the table above
(ii) Compare the values in columns W1.a and W2.b of the above table
(iii) State the principle of moment for parallel forces
(iv) Comment on the relationship in (ii) and (iii) above

LABORATORY WORK 17
The aim of this experiment is to determine the weight of a body and its relative density by the
principle of moment;
Proceed as follows;
Set up the apparatus as shown in the fig below

Suspend a metre rule clamped at 50cm mark.

Balance the metre rule by adjusting U- shaped upper wire so that the rule balances horizontally. Hang
the unknown mass and volume of water in a weighed container at a 20cm mark. Hang the mass of
100g from other end of a metre rule and adjust the distance of this mass so that the rule balances
again.
By the principle of moments determine the mass of water and its containing vessel. Repeat this
procedures using methylated spirit of the same volume, in a weighed container.
(a) Measure and record the length of L1and L2 when a vessel contains water
(b) Measure and record the length L1 and L2 when the vessel contains methylated spirit
(c) Using the principle of moments find the mass of water and that of methylated spirit.
(d) Calculate the relative density of methylated spirit

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 11
 LABORATORY WORK 18
The aim of this experiment is to determine the density of motor oil L0 relative to liquid L1 and the
density of the material of the metre-rule provided.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Locate and mark the center of gravity G of the metre-rule. Measure the width and thickness
of the rule by using a vernier caliper.
(b) Assemble the apparatus as shown in a figure below.
(c) Fix the knife edge E, 10cm from G towards A and a 100g (M1) 5 cm from the end marked A.

(d) With M1 totally immersed in liquid L1, adjust the position of the 50 g (M2) until the rule is
balanced horizontally. Record the positions of M1, M2, and distances x and y.
(e) Move M1 five centimeters towards E and repeat the experiment. Record the new positions of
M1 and M2 and the distances x and y as in (d).
(f) Do this experiment, each time moving M1 by 5 cm towards E to obtain total of five sets of
readings. Tabulate your results.
(g) Replace liquid L1 by the motor oil Lo and repeat the procedure outlined in (d), (e), and (f)
above.
(h) Plot graphs of y against x for liquid L1 and motor oil L0 (use different graph papers).
(i) Find the slope S1 for liquid L1
(ii) Find the slope SO for motor oil LO
(iii) Read the y – intercepts C1 and CO for the two graphs.
(i) Find the value U1 and Uo given that:
𝑀2
𝑈𝑜 = 𝑀1 −
𝑆𝑜
𝑀2
𝑈1 = 𝑀1 −
𝑆1
(j) Calculate the density of motor oil L0 relative to liquid L1, given that:

𝑈0
𝑅. 𝐷 =
𝑈1
(k) Determine the mass M of the metre rule given that:-

𝑀 + 𝑀2
𝐶1 = 𝑏
𝑀1 − 𝑈1

Or
𝑀 + 𝑀2
𝐶𝑜 = 𝑏
𝑀1 − 𝑈𝑜
Hence determine the density of the wooden material of the rule.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 12
 LABORATORY WORK 19
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass (mo) of the metre rule provided.
Proceed as follows;
(a) Find the center of mass of a meter rule by placing it on the knife edge. Find the balancing
point and record that value as Lo
Lo

(b) Hang a 50g mass on the metre rule as shown above at a point such as x = 5cm. Move the
metre rule until it balances. Record the value of y when the metre rule is balanced.

50g

(c) Move the 50g mass to a position where x = 10cm, 15cm, 20cm, 25cm. 30 cm and 40cm.
measure the corresponding values of y for each values of x
(d) Plot a graph of y against x
(e) Determine the slope, s of your graph and calculate the mass Mo of the metre rule using the
relation:-
𝑆𝑀𝑜
+𝑆=1
50
(f) From your graph, find the values of y when x = 0 and call it Yo Calculate the value of the
constant K using the equation
𝑌𝑜
𝐾= (𝐾 + 50)
𝐿𝑜
(g) What is the physical meaning of the constant K?
(h) State one source of error and its precaution

LABORATORY WORK 20
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of the transparent plastic ruler (Revlon) provided.
Proceed as follows;
(a) Determine and mark the center of gravity C of the ruler by balancing the ruler by balancing
the ruler freely on the edge of the glass prism provided and record it.
(a) Suspend a 20g mass on one side of the ruler at d = 0.5cm from the end and find the position
of the edge of a prism to get a balance.
(b) Record the distance x and y as shown in the figure below

y x d
C

20g

(c) Repeat the procedures (a) and (b) above using distance d = 3cm, 6cm, 9cm and 10cm. In each
experiment, read and record their corresponding values of y for each values of x.
(d) Tabulate your results for values of d, x, and y in cm
(e) Plot a graph of y (cm) against x (cm)
(f) Determine the slope, s of your graph and use it to determine the mass of the ruler provided

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 13
 LABORATORY WORK 21
You are provided with the following:-
 A measuring cylinder, A eureka can, nylon tread, Standard masses and, Water.
Process as follows:
(a) Pour water into eureka can until it just beginning to overflow
(b) Hold a suitable measuring cylinder under the spout and immerse a standard mass of 50g into
eureka can as shown in figure below.
(c) Wait for it to drop until it starts to cease and take long interval to drop.

(d) Record the reading of the water collected.

(e) Repeat the procedures (b) to (d) for standard masses 100g, 150g, 200g and 250g
(f) Tabulate your results showing the quantities as follows:-
Mass, M (g) 50 100 150 200 250
3
Volume, V (cm )
(g) Plot a graph of mass against volume
(h) From the graph:
(i) Calculate the slope and state its significance
(ii) Establish the formula governing the experiment.
(i) Identify with reasons the best to the least satisfactory method of finding the constant value of
mass divide by volume.
(j) State two possible errors in this experiment.
(k) How can you minimize the errors you have just mentioned?

LABORATORY WORK 22
In this experiment, you are given the following
 A thread, Eureka can, A measuring cylinder, Water, Masses of 50g, 100g and 200g
Proceed as follows
(i) Pour water into eureka can until it just begins to overflow through the spout. Place the empty
measuring cylinder directly under the spout.
(ii) Tie the metal block of mass M= 50g to a piece of thread and gently lower it into the Eureka
can until it is completely immersed.
(iii) Make sure all water flowing out the can through the spout are collected in the measuring
cylinder. Record the volume of the water collected in the measuring cylinder when it has
stopped overflowing. Repeat the above procedure for the value of M = 100g, 150g, 200g,
250g and 300g
(iv) Tabulate your results as shown below
Mass (M) in g 50 100 150 200 250 300
Volume (V) in cm3 of H2O displaced
(a) Plot a graph of M against V
(b) Solve for your graph’s slope
(c) Use your slope to predict the volume of water that would be displaced by a 320g of the
same compression and material to the masses used.
(d) Mention two source of error and their remedy
(e) What is the aim of this experiment?

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 14
 LABORATORY WORK 23
You are provided with the following boiling tube, half-meter rule, rubber band, a retort stand with its
clamp, water and five (05) glass marbles.
Proceed as follows
Part I
(a) Using a rubber band provided, fix the boiling tube on the half – meter rule and clamp the half-
meter rule as shown in the figure below.

(b) Measure out 20cm3 and pour it into the boiling tube
(c) Measure and record the height Y of the water in the boiling tube.
(d) Gently introduce one glass marble into the boiling tube, measure and record the height y to which
the water rises. Repeat the procedure in (d) above for 2, 3, 4 and 5 glass marbles respectively.
(e) Tabulate your results of the height “Y” against the number of marbles “”
(f) Plot a graph of the height “Y” against the number of marbles “”
(g) Determine the gradient S1 of your graph
Part II
(a) Without detaching the boiling tube from the half-meter rule. Remove the half – meter rule from the
clamp and pour out the contents of the boiling tube.
(b) Clamp the half - meter rule as in part I
(c) Measure out the volume V1 equal to 10cm3 of water and pour it into the boiling tube, measure and
record the height H of the water in the boiling tube.
(d) Repeat the procedure (c) above for V = 20, 30, 40 and 50cm3 respectively.
(e) Tabulate your results
(f) Plot a graph of V against H
(g) Find the slope S2 of your graph and hence solve for K, given that K = S1 x S2

LABORATORY WORK 24
The aim of this experiment is to investigate whether string A obeys Hooke’s law.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 15
Proceed as follows:
Clam string A at one end, attach a weighing pan at the other end and a pointer to give a reading on a
scale as shown in Figure 1 above.
Measure the height, h0 when the pan is empty.
Place 50 g mass on the pan and record the new height h indicated by the pointer.
Add another 50g mass each time up to 250g, and record the corresponding values of h for added mass.
(a) Tabulate your results as shown in the table below.
h0 = ____ cm.

Mass m, (g) 50 100 150 200 250

Height, h (cm)
Extension (h - h0 ) cm
Stretching force, F (N)

(b) Plot a graph of force F (N) against extension (cm).

(c) From the graph find the
(i) Slope, K of the graph
(ii) Extension caused by a mass of 180 g.
(d) Deduce whether string A obeys Hooke’s law.
(e) State the law governing the process

LABORATORY WORK 25
You are provided with spiral spring, 2 retort stands, and meter rule, 6 slotted masses of 50g, optical
pin / pointer and plasticine/masking tape.
Proceed as follows
(a) Clamp the meter rule vertically with the zero mark on top as shown in figure below
(b) Suspend the spring on the clamp with an optical pin (pointer) to its lower end with the aid of a
plasticine/masking tape
(c) Record the initial reading (Yo) of the pointer at the metre rule
(d) Attach a 100g weight at the lower end of the spring then record the new reading as Y

(e) Repeat part (d) above by adding 50g weight at a time until the total weight of the suspended
weight is 300g.
(f) Tabulate your results including a column of Load (N)
(g) Plot a graph of extension against Load
(h) What is the nature of the graph?
(i) Determine the slope of the graph
(j) From the graph, determine the spring constant
(k) What is the aim of this experiment
(l) Give one limitation for this experiment
(m) State the law governing this experiment
(n) State one source of error and the precaution to be taken to avoid the mentioned error.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 16
 LABORATORY WORK 26
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of given object B
Proceed as follows
(i) Set up the apparatus as shown in the fig below with a zero mark of a metre rule at the top of
the rule and record the scale reading by the pointer So
(ii) On the scale pan, put object B together with a standard mass of 20g. Record the new scale
reading as S1 and calculate the extension, e = S1 – So (cm)
(iii) Repeat procedure (b) above by substituting a 20g mass with 40g, 60g, 80g and 100g while
changing the mass, make sure object B is not removed. Record your results in a tabular form.

(a) Table of results

Mass(g) 20 40 60 80 100
Force F(N)
Pointer reading S1(cm)
Extension, e = S1-So (cm)
(b) Plot the graph of Force F (N) (vertical axis) against extension e (horizontal axis)
(c) Use you graph to evaluate
(i) mass of B
(ii) Spring constant K, given that force, extension, constant and weight of B are related as
follow; F = Ke – B

LABORATORY WORK 27
The aim of this experiment is to determine the spring constant, K of the helical spring provided
(a) Set up the apparatus as shown in the fig above without the 200g mass, where

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 17
 (i) Points of suspension P and Q are 40cm apart,
(ii) Loops 1 and 2 are a at 5cm and 45cm marks respectively,
(iii) The pointer is attached to the lower end of the helical spring using plasticine,
(iv) A short string connects the lower end of the spring to loop 2
(v) Loop 1 is attached to P with a long string and
(vi) The half metre rule AB is horizontal such that the edges A and B are at equal height from
the bench. This is achieved by adjusting the length of the string suspended from P
(b) Measure the height of the pointer from the bench. Record it as Yo
(c) (i) Suspend 200g mass provided, at loop 3. Use a short string.
(ii) Adjust loop 3 so that the 200g mass hangs at the 40cm mark i.e., X = 35cm
(iii) Adjust the string length from P such that AB is horizontal again.
(iv) Record the distance, X between the loop 1 and 3 and measure the corresponding height, Y of
the pointer from the bench. Hence determine Y – Yo.
(v) Repeat the steps c) (ii),(iii) and (iv) for values of X = 30, 25, 20, 15, and 10cm. and record
the corresponding values of Y and Y – Yo.
(d) Plot a graph of Y – Yo (y axis) against X
(e) (i) determine the slope S of the graph and hence
(ii) Where M= 200g and PQ = 40, Calculate the value of K given that
𝑀
𝐾=
𝑃𝑄(𝑠)

LABORATORY WORK 28
The aim of this experiment is to verify Hooke’s law. Set up the apparatus as shown below

Record the length indicated by the pointer place 50g weight on the pan. Read and record the Length
indicated by the pointer. Add weights of 50g each time up to 200g. Lead and record the corresponding
values of length L for the added weights. Unload the spring at interval of 50g until the weights are
removed from the pan read and record the corresponding lengths L indicated by the pointer.
(a) Tabulate your results as follows:-
Weights (kg) Force (N) Length L (cm) Average Extension of
length (cm) a spring (cm)
Loading Unloading
L1(cm) L2(cm)
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
(b) What is the initial reading Lo indicated by the pointer?
(c) Complete the table above.
(d) Plot a graph of force (N) against extension (cm)
(e) Is the graph a straight line
(f) Does the graph pass through the origin?

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 18
 LABORATORY WORK 29
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass, Wx and the force constant of the spring
Proceed as follows
(a) Assemble the apparatus as shown in the figure below with zero mark of the meter rule at the
upper most end.
(b) Add 50g mass on the weight pan so that all the kinks in the spring are removed. Leave this
weight for the whole experiment but ignore it in all readings. Record the scale reading as So.

(c) Add the weight W, = 50g on the pan and record the reading S. Calculate the extension, e
caused by the weight given by e = S – So.
(d) Repeat with different (W) procedure (c) above to obtain at least five readings
(e) Replace the weight W by the weight Wx provided and find the corresponding extension.
Record this extension as Sx in (cm)
(f) Tabulate your results
(g) Plot the graph of Load against extension
(i) Find the gradient G of your graph.
(ii) What is the physical meaning of the gradient
(h) Use the graph you have drawn to determine the mass of the weight Wx

LABORATORY WORK 30
In this experiment you are required to find acceleration due to gravity.

By using the tread provided, tie the pendulum bob and hang it so that the length B = 140cm as
shown in the figure above. Pull the pendulum aside and release it so as to swing with small
amplitude. Find the time (t) for 20 oscillations of the pendulum and find the period of the
oscillation. Repeat the procedure for B = 120cm, 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 40cm, and 20cm. record
your result in a table.
(a) Plot a graph of B (m) against T2 (sec2)
(b) Find the slope of the graph.
(c) Does the graph passes through the origin.
(d) Find the acceleration “g” due to gravity using the relationship
−𝑔 2
𝐵= 𝑇 +𝑄
4𝜋 2
(a) State two sources of error and their precautions

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 19
 LABORATORY WORK 31
The aim of this experiment is to find the acceleration due to gravity ‘g’ at a given position.
Proceed as follows:-
Tie a thread to the pendulum bob provided. Hang the pendulum such that the length l of the thread is
100cm as seen in the figure bellow.

(a) Pull the pendulum bob aside and release it so that it swings in a vertical circle to and fro with
small amplitude. Note the time t for 20 complete oscillations hence determine the periodic
time T for one oscillation.
(b) Repeat the procedure above for the values of l = 80, 60, 40 and 20cm
(c) Record your findings in a tabular form
(d) Plot a graph of l against T2
(e) Find the slop S of the graph
(f) Determine the value of ‘g’ at the position by using the relation 𝑇 = 2𝜋√(l/g)
(g) Mention three (3) sources of errors and their amendments.

LABORATORY WORK 32
In this experiment you are required to find acceleration due to gravity.

By using the tread provided, tie the pendulum bob and hang it so that the length Y = 120cm as
shown in the figure above. Pull the pendulum aside and release it so as to swing with small
amplitude. Find the time (t) for 20 oscillations of the pendulum and find the period of the
oscillation. Repeat the procedure for Y = 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 40cm and 20cm. Record your
result in a table. Measure and record the distance X(m) from the point of suspension S to the floor
(b) Plot a graph of Y (meters) against T2 (sec2)
(c) Using the relationship 𝑌 = −𝑘𝑇 2 + 𝐶. Solve for the slope k,
(d) Find the acceleration “g” due to gravity given that:-
−1 4𝜋 2
=
𝑘 𝑔
(e) Using your graph, read and note C, the value of Y when T2 = 0 and from your
understanding, state its significance.
(f) State three sources of error and the ways of minimizing the mentioned errors.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 20
 LABORATORY WORK 33
The aim of this experiment is to determine the acceleration due to gravity.
PROCEDURE
(a) Suspend the pendulum from a fixed point using the retort stand such that it is at a distance
d = 10cm from the floor. H is the distance from the point of suspension to the floor.
(b) Displace the pendulum through a small angle ∅ ≈ 10° to one side and record the time t
for 10 complete oscillations. Hence find the periodic time T for one complete oscillation.
(c) Repeat the procedures in (b) above by varying d in intervals of 10cm to obtain five more
readings.
(d) Tabulate your results for the values of d, t, T and T2

(e) Plot a graph of T2 against d (cm)

i. Determine the slope of the graph
ii. Determine the intercept along the d axis and state its significance.
iii. Calculate the acceleration due to gravity g if the equation for the motion of
the pendulum, is given by:-
−4𝜋 2 4𝜋 2
𝑇2 = 𝑑+ 𝐻
𝑔 𝑔

LABORATORY WORK 34
In this experiment you are required to find the relationship between the length of a simple pendulum
and its period.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Suspend a simple pendulum of length L =100cm.
(b) Displace the pendulum through a small angle so that it swings parallel to the edge of the table,
determine the time for 20 oscillations.
(c) Continue reducing the length of the pendulum by 10cm each time and obtain a total of five
readings
(d) Record your readings in a table as shown below.
Length, L (cm) Log 10 L Time, t (sec) Periodic time, T (sec) T2 (sec2)

Assuming that T & La, we have T=k La and taking log to base ten on both sides we get
𝐿𝑜𝑔 10 𝑇 = 𝑎𝐿𝑜𝑔 10 𝐿 + 𝐿𝑜𝑔 10 𝐾
(i) Plot a graph of log10T (Vertical axis) against log10L hence determine the values of a and
K each correct to one decimal place.
(ii) From your answer in (i) above write down the value of a and K each in the form of b/c
where b and c are integers (i.e. Whole numbers)
(iii) From the assumptions and your answer in (ii) deduce the form of the equation governing
the motion of the simple pendulum.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 21
 LABORATORY WORK 35
The aim of this experiment is to determine the ratio p as defined in part (c), using a simple pendulum.
 Tie a thread to a given pendulum bob. Make a knot distance from the bob. This distance
should be at the order of 10cm.
 Set up a pendulum as shown in the figure below. Measure and record the distance “b”
between the knot K and the pendulum bob B
 The distance between the knot K and the point of suspension S is denoted by X as indicated in
the figure below.

(a) Suspend the pendulum as it is shown in the figure. Adjust x to be 10cm. x is the distance
between the point of suspension “S” and the knot “K” on the string.
(b) Pull the string at its point of suspension until x = 10cm, swing the pendulum and
measure the time (t) for 30 oscillations of small amplitudes of vibrations.
(c) Calculate the periodic time T for one oscillation and hence determine T2. Record the value of
x, t. T and T2. Repeat the above procedure for values of x = 20, 40, 60 and 80cm.
(d) Plot a graph of T2 (y – axis) against x(x – axis)
(e) i. Determine the value of the slope and Read and record To2 the value of T2 when X = 0
To2 To2
ii.Hence compute for the ratio Q where Q = and state how b relate to
s s
iii.Find the acceleration due to gravity

LABORATORY WORK 36
In this experiment you are required to find acceleration due to gravity.

By using the tread provided, tie the pendulum bob and hang it so that the length L = 120cm as
shown in the figure above. Pull the pendulum aside and release it so as to swing with small
amplitude. Find the time (t) for 20 oscillations of the pendulum and find the period of the
oscillation. Repeat the procedure for L = 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 40cm, and 20cm. record your
result in a table.
(a) Plot a graph of L (m) against T2.
(b) Find the slope of the graph.
(c) Find the acceleration “g” due to gravity and the height H by using the relationship:-
4𝜋 2
𝑇2 = 𝐿 + 4𝐻
𝑔
(d) State two sources of error and the ways of minimizing the mentioned errors.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 22
 LABORATORY WORK 37
The aim of this experiment is to find the acceleration due to gravity ‘g’ and the constant T c for the
ruler provided
Proceed as follows:-
Tie a thread to the pendulum bob provided. Hang the pendulum such that the length L of the thread is
100cm as seen in the figure bellow.

a) Using a fixed clamp fix the meter ruler on one leg of the table as shown. (the flat part of the
ruler should be 80cm)
b) By means of a string given, suspend the pendulum bob from the hole through the meter rule
as shown in the diagram above
c) Starting with L = 80cm distance, the bob through a small angle along the direction of the
length of the ruler then release it so that it performs small amplitude oscillations.
d) Pull the pendulum bob aside and release it so that it swings in a vertical circle to and fro with
small amplitude. Note the time t for 20 complete oscillations hence determine the periodic
time T for one oscillation and hence the periodic time T for one complete oscillation.
e) Without altering L (a) above repeat c) and d) for l = 70cm, 60cm, 50cm, 30cm and 20cm.
f) Record your findings in a tabular form
g) Plot a graph of T2 against l
h) Determine the value of ‘g’ and the value of the constant Tc, given that:-
39.48𝑙
𝑇2 = + 𝑇𝑐
𝑔
i) What is the significance of the constant 𝑇𝑐 in your experiment
j) Mention any two (2) sources of errors involved and the precautions taken in this experiment.

LABORATORY WORK 38
Procedures
(i) Set up a pendulum as shown in the figure below. The length L approximately 80cm using the
equipment provided.

(i) Mount the wooden rod horizontally so that it acts as a stopper about half way down the pendulum.
The stopper should just touch the string when the pendulum rests in a vertical position.
(ii) Measure and record the value of d
(iii) Pull the pendulum gently so as to make it swing in vertical perpendicular to the stopper

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 23
(iv) Measure the time (t) for 20 oscillations.
(v) Repeats steps (c-e) above for five further values of “d” in range of d = 20cm to 60cm.
(a) Include in your table of results the values of d/t justify the number of significance you have
given for d/t.
(b) It is assumed that T and d are related by the formula
𝜋2 𝑑 𝑙
𝑇=− ( ) + 2𝜋√
𝑔 𝑡 𝑔
(c) Where g is the acceleration of free fall.
d
(d) Plot a graph of T (y – axis) against T (x – axis)
(e) Determine the value of the slope of your graph
(f) Find the acceleration due to gravity
(g) State four (04) sources of errors and their precautions in this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 39
The aim of this experiment is to determine the springs constant ‘K’ and the unknown mass Mo
provided.

Procedures
(i) Suspend a spiral spring with its scale pan from support as indicated in the figure above.
(ii) Load it with mass m’ = 50g and Mo, pull the scale pan slightly below the equilibrium
position and released it so that the system executes vertical oscillation
(iii) Determine the period time for 10 Oscillations.
(iv) Repeat this procedure with five other different masses in steps of 50g [i.e. M’ = 100g, 150g,
200g and 250g] every time you change Mo make sure M’ remains on the scale pan.
(v) The period T and the spring constant K are related by an expression of the form any of the
two equations given below.
4𝜋 2 ′ 4𝜋 2
𝑇2 = 𝑚 + 𝑚𝑜
𝑘 𝑘
𝐾𝑔𝑇 2
𝑚′ = − 𝑚𝑜
4𝜋 2
Where m’ is unknown mass, k the spring constant, mo is the varying mass and T is the
periodic time.
Tabulate your result as shown below
Mass m’ (g) Time(s) for 30 oscillations Periodic time T (sec) T2(sec2)
50
100
150
200
250
 Plot a graph of T2 against M’, and use it to determine the quantities of K and Mo
 Plot a graph of M’ against T2 using the same table of results. Hence deduce the unknown mass Mo
and acceleration due to gravity ‘g’ after calculating K from the extension caused by a 50g block.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 24
 LABORATORY WORK 40
The aim of this experiment is to determine the acceleration due to gravity g and the constant
H. Set up the apparatus as shown in the fig below whereby a spiral spring is tied to the clamp
of a retort stand with an inextensible cotton string.
A wooden block of mass 150g is hanged on the lower part of the spring. Measure the height h
from the floor to the point of attachment of the block

Pull the block downward and release it so that it can swing with vertical oscillations. This is a
simple harmonic motion. Measure the time t for 20 complete oscillations and hence determine
the corresponding period T for the motion then calculate the value of T2
(a) Repeat the procedure by changing the mass of the wooden block to m = 200g, 250g, 300g,
350g, and 400g in each time record the value of the height h from the floor
(b) Tabulate the values of m, t, T and T2
(c) (i) Plot a graph of h against T2
(ii) Determine the slope of your graph
(iii) If H and T are related through the equation below, Find the value of g and H
𝑔𝑇 2
ℎ=𝐻−
4𝜋 2
(d) State all possible sources of errors in this experiment and state the precautionary measures
that are to be taken in order to reduce the effect of those errors

LABORATORY WORK 41
The aim of this experiment is to determine the earth’s gravitational intensity, g and the effective mass
s of the spiral spring.
Proceed as follows:

(a) Suspend the spiral spring with its scale pan, P as shown in the diagram above from a rigid
support. Attach a light pointer, R to the spring. Set up a metre rule, C besides the spring.
(b) Record the initial reading of the pointer and then add suitable weights, m noting the reading
of the pointer each time. Obtain about six readings.
(c) Tabulate your results.
(d) Plot a graph of x against m.
(e) If the extension, x of the spring is related to the added weights m by:-
𝑔 𝑔
𝑥= 𝑚+ 𝑠
𝑘 𝑘
Where k is the elastic constant of the spring, Use the given relation and your graph to
determine:
(i) A value of g, in Newton’s per kilogram, (ii) A value for S in kilogram.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 25
 LABORATORY WORK 42
The aim of this experiment is to determine the acceleration due to gravity g

Procedures
(a) Set up the apparatus as shown above. Note that the meter rule has its zero marks at the top.
Record the pointer reading X0
(b) Put on the scale pan a mass M of 50g and record the new pointer reading X on the meter rule.
Calculate the extension S = X –X0 corresponding to the added mass.
(c) Repeat the procedure for a series of masses M in steps of 50g until you obtain five more
readings. Tabulate your results for M, X and S.
(d) With a mass M1 of 200g on the scale pan, pull the spring through a small distance downwards
and release it. Record the time for 15 complete oscillations & determine the periodic time T1.
(e) Repeat procedure (d) for another mass M2 of 300g and find its periodic time T2
(i) Plot the graph of extension S against mass M.
(ii) Determine the slope G of the graph.
(f) Calculate the acceleration due to gravity g, given that:-
𝑀2 − 𝑀1
𝑔 = 4𝜋 2 𝐺 ( 2 )
𝑇2 − 𝑇12
(g) State any sources of errors and precautions to be taken

LABORATORY WORK 43
The aim of this experiment is to determine the unknown mass Mo and the acceration due to gravity by
using an oscillating mass attached to the spiral spring
Proceed as follows:-
Step I
(a) Note that the metre rule has its zero mark at the top
(b) Record the pointer reading as Xo

(c) Put on the scale a mass of 50g and record the pointer reading as X on the metre rule.
(d) Calculate the extension, e = X – Xo corresponding to the added mass.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 26
 (e) Find the vaue of the constant, K given by:-
𝑇𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 50𝑔
𝑘= =
𝐸𝑥𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐸
Step II
(a) Remove the scale pan and attach the unknown mass Mo with the 50g at the end of the spring.
Slightly pull down the masses such that it oscillates up and down. Measure and record the
time for 30 complete oscillations.
(b) Repeat the procedure (a) above by substituting a mass of 50g with 100g, 150g, 200g, 250g
and 300g respectively each time with unknown mass attached and measuring the time taken
to make 30 oscillations
(c) Record your measurements in a table as shown beow:-
Load, M (g) Time, t for 30 oscillations (sec) Period, T (sec) T2 (sec2)
50
100
150
200
250
300
(d) Plot a graph of M against T2
(e) Find the slope and the intercept on the m-axis
(f) Use the equation and your graph to calcuate the value of the acceleration due to gravty, g and
the unknown mass, Mo given that,
𝐾𝑔𝑇 2
𝑀= − 𝑀𝑜
4𝜋 2

LABORATORY WORK 44
The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of the spring S and its spring constant K
(a) Suspend the spiral spring to the retort stand as shown below

(b) Load the lower end of the spring with a mass of M = 50g and then pull the mass
slightly vertically downwards thrugh a short distance from an equilibrium position
and release it so that the system executes vertical oscillations of small amplitudes.
(c) Use a stop whatch to record the time t (sec) for 20 vertical oscillations and then
determine the periodic time T (sec), hence determine T2 (sec2)
(d) Repeat this procedure for the other four (4) masses in step of 50g.
(e) Tabulate your results.
(f) If it is found that the Period T of oscillations and the spring constant K are related by:
𝑇2 𝑀+𝑆
2
=
4𝜋 𝐾
Where by S is the effective mass of the spring
(i) Plot a graph of T2 against M
(ii) Calculate the slope of the graph
(iii)Using the given equation and your graph, determine the value of S and K

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 27
 Possible Errors in the Pendulum Experiments
Sources of error
1) Time reaction
 Hesitancy in either starting or stopping the stop watch
2) Wind blow
 Affects the oscillating exercises
3) Using wrong calibrated instruments and graphs
 Some graphs have less millimeters than prescribed lengths
4) Using a single data to conclude the experiment
 Using one oscillation to calculate a periodic time
5) Oscillating the pendulum at a large angle
 Angle of displacement of the bob should be kept as small as possible to minimize the
possible friction due to more air resistance
6) Using a slightly extensible or a loose string to its point of suspension
 This results into extending the periodic time
LABORATORY WORK 45
The aim of this experiment is to determine the Young`s modulus of a given metre rule
Proceed as follows

Take a meter-rule (L) whose weight is provided and fix it at its 10cm mark by means of a G- clamp.
Record the height (do) above the ground of the 50cm mark of the rule.
Take the 50g weight provided and suspend it on the meter rule at 50cmmark using a string. Note the
length  of the rule between the position of the clamp and the position 50g- weight. Note also the new
height (d) of the 50cm mark above the ground. (See the fig above)
(a) change the position of the 50g-weight to 60cm,70cm, 80cm, 90cm and 100cm respectively
and repeat the measurements as in (a) above each new position.
(b) Record your readings in a suitable table and include columns for X = do – d and L3
(c) Plot a graph of  3 (vertical axis) against X = do – d(horizontal axis)
(d) Determine the slope of the graph
(e) Calculate the Young`s modulus (E) using the relation :
W 3
X  Giving your answer in SI units
3IE
Where W = 50g-weight of the rule.
b.d 3
I
12 b = width of the rule

d = thickness of the rule (Should be measured using the venire calipers provided

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 28
 LABORATORY WORK 46
Determine the Young`s modulus of the material of the meter rule provided

Clamp the meter rule firmly with a distance L of about 90cm. overhanging from the bench. The free
end is such that it acts as a pointer along the metre rule clamped in the vertical position. Note the scale
reading, so, on the vertical metre rule when the horizontal meter rule is not loaded.
Fasten the weighing pan at the free end of the horizontal metre rule with a piece of strong thread. Add
on to the weighing pan a mass of 20g and record the scale reading So on the vertical meter rule.
Calculate the depression, D = S – So, corresponding to the added mass. Keeping the length L
constant, add a series of masses from say 20g to 140g in steps of 20g with each added mass, record S
and calculate D
(a) Use Vernier calipers to measure the breadth b and thickness d of the horizontal meter rule
(b) Plot the graph of depression D against the added masses m
(c) From your graph determine the slope
(d) Calculate the Young`s modulus Y of the material of the rule use the formula (use g = 9.8ms-2)
4 gL3
Y
bd 3 slope
LABORATORY WORK 47
The aim of this experiment is to determine the Young`s modulus of a given metre rule
Proceed as follows;
Use a Vernier calliper to measure the breadth and thickness of the metre rule provided

Take a meter rule and fix it at its 10cm mark by means of a G clamp. Record the height ho above the
ground. Take a 50g weight (L) provided and suspend it on the meter rule at 90cm mark using a string.
Note the new height h above the ground. Repeat the above procedure by suspending the weights of
100g, 150g, 200g, 250g and 300g from the same position, each recording the new height h
(a) Record your reading in a suitable table and include the column for (ho - h)
(b) Plot a graph of L(load) vertical axis against (ho - h) horizontal axis
(c) From your graph find the slope G.
3
4 
(d) Determine the Young`s modulus Y of the wooden meter rule given that Y   
Gb  t 
Where  is the distance of point of the weight from the clamp, b is the breadth of the meter
rule and t is the thickness of the wooden meter rule

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 29
 LABORATORY WORK 48
The aim of this experiment is to determine the distance of the image from a plane mirror.
PROCEDURE:-

(a) Place the soft board on a horizontal bench. Fix the white sheet of paper on the soft board
using drawing pins. Draw line L, 15cm length at the middle of the white sheet of paper
using the ruler and a pencil. Support a mirror vertically upwards on a sheet of white paper
with the help of a supporting wooden stand.
(b) Measure OL, a 4.0cm line perpendicular to the reflecting surface of the mirror
(c) Place a search pin at the extreme end of the line at point O.
(d) Place two search pins R, S to fall in line with the image when viewed at bench level.
Repeat this procedure c) with two other pins P and Q.
(e) Mark the pins position and draw a straight line through QP and extend it behind the
mirror and draw the second line through SR also extends it until it intersects with the line
from QP.
(f) Repeat the procedures above for OL = 4.2cm, 4.4cm, 4.6cm and 4.8cm.
(g) Measure their corresponding distances LI and record OL and LI in tabular form

LABORATORY WORK 49
The aim of this experiment is to investigate the relationship between the angle of rotation of the
reflected ray from a plane mirror and the angle of the mirror.
Procedure:-

(a) Pin the drawing paper provided to the desk or drawing board with the drawing pins and draw
two straight lines A1B1 and A2B2 to enclose an angle of α = 100
(b) Draw a line through making an angle 750 with A1B1. This represents the incident ray and
inserts two pins P and Q on this line.
(c) Place the reflecting surface of the mirror along A1B1, place pins T and U to appear in line
with images of P and Q. Join OTU.
(d) Turn the mirror clockwise through an angle α = 100 so that it’s reflecting surface is now along
A2B2.
(e) Stick pins R and S to appear in the line with the image of P and Q. Join the line ORS.
(f) Record the angle corresponding to β as shown in the diagram above.
(g) Repeat the experiment with α = 150, 200, 250, 300 and 350.
(h) Draw the graph of angle β against angle α.
(i) Determine the slop of the graph.
(j) From the graph give the relationship between α and β.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 30
 LABORATORY WORK 50
In this experiment, you are provided with two (2) mirrors, one optical pin, a sheet of plane paper, a
drawing board, a protractor and mirror holders
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Draw two (2) lines on a plane sheet of paper securely fixed on the drawing board at angle
∅ using your ruler and a protractor.
(b) Place one mirror on each of the lines of the sheet of paper.
(c) Fix an optical pin on point O and look into both mirrors and count the number of images
for ∅ = 1200
(d) Repeat the procedure for ∅ = 900, 720, 600, 450 and 300
(i) Table of results
Angle between mirrors ∅𝑜 120 90 72 60 45 30
Number of images n
360𝑜
∅𝑜
1
(𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑑𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑒)
∅𝑜

360𝑜
(ii) Plot the first graph of ∅𝑜 vertical axis against 𝑛
(iii) From your graph
(a) Determine the slope of your graph M to the nearest ones
360𝑜
(b) Determine the ∅𝑜
- intercept on the graph and call it Z
360𝑜
(c) If the equation relating ∅𝑜 , M with Z is given by
𝟑𝟔𝟎𝒐
= 𝑴𝒏 + 𝒁
∅𝒐
Rewrite it using the values of M and Z obtained above.
1
(iv) Plot the second graph of n vertical axis against ∅
(v) From your graph
(a) Determine the slope of your graph G to the nearest tens
(b) Determine the n- intercept on the graph and call it P
(c) If the equation relating n with P is given by
𝑮
𝒏= +𝑷
∅
Rewrite it using the values of G and P obtained above.
(vi) What happens to number of images when ∅ = 00
(vii) Suggest the two possible characteristics of the image formed
(viii) Suggest the aim of this experiment.
(ix) Mention two possible sources of error
NB: Hand in your drawings together with your answer sheets.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 31
 LABORATORY WORK 51
The aim of this experiment is to investigate the relationship between the angle of incidence and angle
of reflection.
Procedure:-
Place the soft board on a horizontal bench. Fix the white sheet of paper on the soft board using
drawing pins. Support a mirror vertically upwards on a sheet of white paper with the help of a
supporting wooden block.

(a) Locate a point O at the middle of the mirror as shown above. Draw a line ON normal to the
mirror from point O. Draw lines on a white sheet paper from point O making angles of 200
measured from line ON using a protractor
(b) Insert two pins P1 and P2 in the line AO i.e. the closest line to the normal with 200, so that the
incident ray is along AO.
(c) Then using two other pins P3 and P4 identify the reflected ray OR by using a line not by a
dotted line as seen above.
(d) Measure and record the angle of incidence i0 and its resultant angle of reflection r0.
(e) Repeat all the procedures above for the angles of 250, 300, 350 400, 450 and 500 measured from
the line ON and record the corresponding angle of reflection r.
(i) Tabulate your results as follows.
The incidence angle (io) 200 300 400 500 600
o
The reflected angle (r )
(ii) Draw a graph of incidence angle versus angle of reflection.
(iii) What is the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection for
any incident ray on the mirror?

LABORATORY WORK 52
The aim of this experiment is to determine the distance of the image from a plane mirror.
Procedure:-

(a) Place the soft board on a horizontal bench. Fix the white sheet of paper on the soft board
using drawing pins.
(b) Support a mirror vertically upwards on a sheet of white paper with the help of a supporting
wooden block. Draw line AB at the middle of the white sheet of paper using the ruler and a
pencil.
(c) Place the mirror on line AB and fix an optical pin at a point about 10cm in front of the mirror.
Observe through the mirror from the side position such as point E on the figure above.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 32
 (d) Locate pin I behind the mirror by searching for a position of no parallax between the image
of pin O and the searching pin I by fixing pins C and D which appear to be along the line of
sight of line EI. Remove the mirror and pins.
(e) Label the pin marks with letters O, I, C and D using a pencil. Complete the ray diagram
maintaining the principle that lines behind the mirror are dotted and not continuous.
(f) Locate the actual position I of the image which should lie at the point intersection of lines OI
extended and line CD extended.
(g) Locate point P along OI on AB. Measure and record the lengths OP and PI.
(h) Repeat procedure (b) to (f) for an optical pin O placed at 12cm, 14cm, 16cm, 18cm and
20cm.
(i) Plot a graph of OP against PI.
(j) From the graph, deduce the relationship between the image distance PI and the object
distance OP.
(k) Why are the lines behind the mirror drawn as dotted lines?
(l) Predict three possible characteristics of the image formed
(m) State two possible source of errors in this experiment
(n) Mention the precautions for the errors mentioned in (m) above to be prevented.

LABORATORY WORK 53
The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index 𝜂 of a given glass block.

Place the rectangular glass block on the white paper on a drawing board. Using a pencil, trace the
outline of the block ABCD. Remove the glass block and draw a normal NON’.
Using a protractor and a pencil measure 𝑎n angle 𝑖 ° of 30° with the surface AB of the glass block.
Erect two pins T1 and T2 on this line and at a suitable distance from one another. Return the block
and erect the pins T3 and T4 at a position such that they lie in a straight line with pins T1 and T2 as
seen through the glass block. Now remove the block and draw a complete path of the ray OM as
shown in the figure and measure the angle r
Repeat the procedure for values of 𝑖 = 40° , 50° , 60° 𝑎𝑛𝑑 70° every time recording their
corresponding angle r. In each case make a drawing on a fresh part of the drawing paper.
(a) Record the values in a tabular form as shown below
𝑖° 30 40 50 60 70
°
𝑟
Sin 𝑖 °
Sin 𝑟 °
(b) Plot a graph of Sin 𝑖 ° against Sin 𝑟 °
(c) Find the slope G of the graph
(d) Calculate the value of the refractive index 𝛈;
(e) Verify Snell’s law
(f) State any two sources of errors in this experiment

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 33
 LABORATORY WORK 54
The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index 𝜂 of a glass for light passing from air
to glass.
Proceed as follows:-

(a) Place the rectangular glass block on the white paper on a drawing board. Using a pencil, trace
the outline of the block abxy. Remove the glass block and draw a normal NAB near the left
end of the block.
(b) Using a protractor and a pencil measure 𝜃 = 20° with the surface of the block. Erect two pins
P1 and P2 on this line and at a suitable distance apart. Replace the block and erect two more
pins P3 and P4 at a position such that they lie in a straight line with pins P1 and P2 as seen
through the glass block. Again remove the block and draw a complete path of the ray as
shown in the figure above.
(c) Repeat the procedures (a) and (b) above for values of 𝜃 = 30° , 40° , 50° 𝑎𝑛𝑑 60° each time
make your drawing on a fresh part of the drawing paper.
(d) Record clearly in a table the values of 𝜃, BC, AC, Cos 𝜃 and K , calculate K as
𝐵𝐶
𝐾=
𝐴𝐶
(a) Plot a graph of Cos 𝜃 (vertical axis) against K (horizontal axis)
cos 𝜃
(b) Determine the relative refractive index η; given that η = 𝑘
(c) State any two sources of errors in this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 55
You are given the following items
- 1 soft board, 4 optical pins, 1 glass block, 2 top-head pins and 1 white paper
Procedure
a) Using the drawing pins provided, fix the white paper on a soft board.
b) Place the glass block in the middle of the sheet of paper, and using a pencil mark the outline
PQRS of the glass block.
c) Remove the glass block; draw a perpendicular line to PQ at B.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 34
 d) Draw a line AB such that angle i is 10.and replace the glass block
e) Stick two pins P1 and P2 along AB and looking through the glass block from the opposite face
SR, stick two other pins P3 and P4 in line with P1 and P2. Remove the glass block join C and
D.
f) Measure and record distances X and Y
g) Repeat procedures (d) to (g) for value of i equal to 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70
h) Enter your results in a table, including values of sin i and x ( i is the angle of incidence)
y
i) Plot a graph of sin i against x
y
j) Give out the physical meaning of the slope from the graph plotted in (j) above.
k) Give out the source of errors and how to counterbalance them.

LABORATORY WORK 56
The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index 𝜂 of a given glass block.

Procedure
(i) Use two of the six pins provided to fix the white paper on a soft board. Place the glass block
in the middle of the sheet of paper, and using a pencil mark the outline of the glass block.
Remove the glass block; draw a perpendicular line (Normal) NON’ near the left end of the
block as shown in the figure above.
(ii) Using a protractor and a pencil, measure 𝑖 = 30° from the normal. Insert two pins P1 and P2 on
the line and at a suitable distance from one another.
(iii) Replace the glass block and insert pins P3 and P4 at a position in such a manner that they lie in
a straight line with the images of P1 and P2 as seen through the second face Now remove the
glass block and draw a complete path of the ray as shown in the figure.
(iv) Repeat procedures (i) to (iii) for the values of 𝑖equal to 40, 50, 60 and 70. In each case,
make a drawing on a fresh part of the drawing paper.
(v) Measure and record the length, l, width, w and thickness, t of the glass block given
(vi) Tabulate your results
𝑖𝑜 30𝑜 40𝑜 50𝑜 60𝑜 70𝑜
𝑟𝑜
tan 𝑟 𝑜
x (cm)
(a) Using the data in the table
(i) Plot the graph of x against tan r
(ii) Determine the gradient of the graph
(b) Explain what the value of the gradient means
(c) State sources of errors in this experiment
(d) Mention any two precautions to be taken in doing the experiment

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 35
 LABORATORY WORK 57
The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index n of a glass block
Procedures
(a) Fix the plane sheet of paper provided on the soft board using optical pins.
(b) Place the glass block on the sheet of paper so that the largest face is topmost as shown in the
figure and trace out the outline of the glass block.

(c) Stick Pins P1 and P2 in the soft board in such a way that the angle of incidence i is 25o and
make sure that AO is less than one third of AB
(d) Place pins P3 and P4 so that they appear to be in line with the images of P1 and P2 as observed
through the face CD of the block.
(e) Remove the block and trace the ray through it
(f) Measure and record distance L
(g) Replace the block and repeat procedures (c) and (f) for the angles of incidence i = 35o, 45o,
55o and 65o
1
(h) Tabulate your results including the values of sin2 i and 𝐿2
1
(i) Plot a graph of sin2 i against 𝐿2
(j) Determine the slope, S, of your graph and the intercept C on the sin2 i axis.
(k) Find the values of “n” from the relation 𝑛 = √𝐶 and the width w of the glass block from the
relation:-
√(−𝑆)
𝑤=
𝑛
LABORATORY WORK 58
The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index 𝜂 of a given glass block.

Place the rectangular glass block on the white paper on a drawing board. Using a pencil, trace the
outline of the block. Remove the glass block and draw a normal NON’ near the left end of the
block.Using a protractor and a pencil measure 𝜃 = 20° draw a line making the angle 20° with the
surface RR’ of the glass block.
Erect two pins T1 and T2 on this line and at a suitable distance from one another. Return the block
and erect the pins T3 and T4 at a position such that they lie in a straight line with pins T1 and T2 as
seen through the glass block.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 36
 Now remove the block and draw a complete path of the ray OM as shown in the figure.
Measure the length MN’ and OM
Repeat the procedure for values of 𝜃 = 30° , 40° 𝑎𝑛𝑑 60° every time record the length of their
corresponding MN’ and OM. In each case make a drawing on a fresh part of the drawing paper.
𝑀𝑁 ′
(a) Record the values of 𝜃, MN’, OM, and Cos 𝜃.
𝑂𝑀
𝑀𝑁 ′
(b) Plot a graph of 𝑂𝑀
against Cos 𝜃.
(c) Find the slope G of the graph
(d) Calculate the value of the critical angle C, where G = sin C0
1
(e) Calculate the value of the refractive index η; given that G = η
(f) State any two sources of errors in this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 59
You are provided with a glass block, four sheets of drawing paper, four optical pins (or office pins)
and a drawing board.
Proceed as follows:-
 Place a glass block flat on the drawing paper fixed to the drawing board and with a sharp pencil
and draw its outline.

 Remove the glass block and draw a normal NN’ to the longer edge of the block (see in the fig)
 Draw a line making an angle of incidence (io) of 30o, stick two vertical pins P1 and P2 on this line.
Replace the glass block. Stick two more pins P3 and P4 on the other side of the block so that they
appear to be in the same straight line with the images of pins P1 and P2 as seen through the block.
 Remove the block and draw the complete path of the ray entering and leaving the block. Measure
the angle of refraction (ro).
 Produce the incident ray as shown above and measure the perpendicular distance (d) between the
incident ray and the emergent ray.
 Repeat the procedure for angles of incidence of 40o, 50o, 60o and 70o. In each case draw the block
again on a fresh part of the paper.
a) Record your results in a table as follows:-
io ro d(cm) dcos ro (cm) sin (io – ro)
30
40
50
60
b) Plot a graph of dCos ro (vertical axis) against Sin (io – ro) (horizontal axis)
c) Find the gradient of the graph.
d) Measure the width of the glass block.
e) How is the gradient related to the width of the glass block?
NB: Hand in your diagrams together with your answer sheets.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 37
 LABORATORY WORK 60
You are provided with a beaker, retort stand with clamps, two optical pins, liquid (water), and small
sheet of white paper, plasticine, a rectangular block of wood and a transparent 30cm ruler.
(a) Put an optical pin O with a very small bob of plasticine to the bottom of a clear beaker and stand
the beaker on a sheet of white paper as shown in the figure below
(b) Remove ink marks and repeat for the depth of liquid of 9cm, 6cm and 4cm

(c) Pour in a liquid carefully about 11cm depth and view the optical pin O through this liquid. Adjust
the position of the lamped search pin S so as to eliminate parallax between its point and that of the
image I of O
(d) Make ink mark on the beaker corresponding to the position of the surface and the position of
image I
(e) Taking care not to remove the ink marks, measure the real depth OL and the apparent depth IL
(f) Tabulate your results
(g) Plot a graph of OL against IL
(h) Using a graph, find the real depth when the apparent depth is 3cm
(i) What does the slope of the graph indicate?
(j) Find the reciprocal of the slope.
(k) Comment on the answer obtained in 2(j)
(l) Identify three possible source of error in this experiment
(m) State ways to minimize the errors into (2n)
(n) Identify the principle government this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 61
The aim of this experiment is to determine the relative refractive index for light passing from air to
glass.
 Proceed as follows:-
(a) Place the triangular glass prism on the drawing paper fixed on the board. Using a sharp pencil
trace the outline of the prism around the middle of the page note the edges as ABC.
(b) Draw a line making an angle of incidence (i) of 30 and erect two pins on this line at suitable
distance apart
(c) Replace the prism and erect two more pins at position which appear to be in straight line with
the other two pins as seen through the prism,
(d) Remove the prism and draw the complete path of the ray. Draw and measure the angle of
emergence, e.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 38
 (e) Repeat this procedure for angle of incidence of 40, 50, 60 and 70 and in each make your
drawing on a fresh part of the drawing paper. Each time ensure that the incidence is always
through side AB.
(f) Record the refracting angle of the prism A which is given by angle BAC by using one of your
traces.
(i) Plot a graph of the emergence angle e (vertical axis) against the incidence angle i.
Use the same scale on both axes and include the origin (0, 0) in your graph.
(ii) Draw a straight line making an angle of 45 with ei axes, and produce it to intersect
your e against i graph.
(iii) Read and record the coordinates of the point of intersection a, b 
(iv) Calculate the relative refractive index  given that
 A  Dm 
Sin 
   2 
 A
Sin 
 2 
(g) Where A is the refracting angle of the prism and Dm = a  b  A
where a, b are the coordinates of the points of intersection obtained in part d) ii
(h) State any sources of errors and precautions taken in this experiment.

LABORATORY WORK 62
The diagram on fig below shows the passage of a ray of light through a glass prism.

Procedures
Place the given glass prism on a sheet of paper and trace its outline ABC. Remove the prism.
Construct a normal on side AB and measure the angle of incidence, i of 300.
Push the two pins P1 and P2 into the paper along the line drawn making the prescribed angle of 300 as
shown in fig above and thereafter replace the prism. Construct the emergent ray on side AC by
pushing two more pins P3 and P4 into the paper so that they appear to be in line with the images of
pins P1 and P2 when viewed through the prism. Again remove the prism. Join the pins marked P3 and
P4 so that line representing emergent ray is seen.
Extend the incident ray and emergent ray so that they meet as seen. Measure the angle of deviation d
made and also measure angle e.
Repeat this procedure for i = 400, 500, 500and 600. Note that a separate diagram should be drawn for
each value of i
(a) Tabulate the values of i, e, d and (d-e)
(b) Plot a graph of d against i. from your graph, read and record D, the minimum value of d.
(c) Plot a graph of (d- e) against i.
(d) From your graph read and record the intercept, I, on the i-axis

(e) Find the value of sin 2 I  D 

1

1
sin I
2

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 39
 LABORATORY WORK 63
In this experiment you will determine the refractive index, n, of glass.
Proceed as follows;
Fix a white sheet of paper provided on a soft board. Place the triangular glass prism on the drawing
paper fixed on the board. Using a sharp pencil trace its outline. Remove the prim,

(a) Draw a line AB such that io = 300 and replace the prism. Sick two pins P1 and P2 along AB and
by using two other pins P3 and P4, trace the path of light through the prism. Remove the prism.
Measure and record the angle of emergenceα and the angle of deviation, d.
(b) Repeat the procedures (a) for values of i = 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, 600 and 650.
(c) Plot a graph of (d - α ) against i. read the intercept β on the i-axis
(d) Plot another graph of α against i. Using the same axes, draw the line α = i. find the values of
α0 and i0 of α and I respectively. At the point of intersection of the two graphs
(e) Calculate Do from Do = (α0 + i0 - β)
   1 1  1
(f) Evaluate n from sin    sin  Do   
 2   2 2  n

LABORATORY WORK 64
The aim of this experiment is to find the value of the refractive index, n

Proceed as follows;
Place the prism on the paper and trace its outline with a sharp pencil. Remove the prism and draw a
normal at a point I on AB and an incident ray making an angle i = 300 with a normal as shown in the
fig above. Return the prism and insert pins P1 and P2 to define this incident ray. View the pins through
the prism from the opposite face AC and insert pins P3 and P4 so that they appear in line with the
images of pins P1 and P2. Remove the prism. Join P4P3 to give the emergent ray. Produce both the
incident and emergent rays to intersect and enclose the angle of deviation, D. Draw the normal at E.
Measure angle of incidence i, the angle of deviation D, and the angle of emergence, e.
Repeat the experiment for angles of incidence 400, 500, 600, and 700 using different page of the paper
in each case.
(a) Tabulate your results as follows
i 300 400 500 600 700
D
e
(D - e)

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 40
 (b) Complete the table by Calculating the values of (D - e).
(c) Plot a graph of (D - e) on the y- axis against i on the x- axis
(d) Read from the graph the i - axis intercept and call it im
 37.5  im 
sin  
 2
(e) Calculate the value of n given that n 
i 
sin  m 
2

LABORATORY WORK 65
In this experiment you are required to verify Ohm’s law.
You are provided with
 Some wires, a voltmeter V, an ammeter A, a resistor, a switch, a rheostat, Rh
 Connect the circuit as shown in the diagram below

(a) Adjust the rheostat until the voltmeter “V” reads 0.9V. Take the ammeter reading.
(b) Repeat the procedure (a) to set the voltmeter read 0.8V, 0.7V, 0.6V, 0.5V and 0.4V. In each
case take the reading of the ammeter.
(i) Tabulate your results
(ii) Plot a graph of V against I
(iii) Determine the slope of the graph
(iv) What does the graph’s slope indicate?
(v) State the relationship between V and I
(vi) State the law that relates V and I

LABORATORY WORK 66
The aim of this experiment is to determine the residence of a wire W.
Proceed as follows.
(a) Comment in series the full length of wire W of unknown resistance. Battery B (3 V) a switch K, a
rheostat Rh of a few ohms and an ammeter A of 0 - 1 A Connect the voltmeter V of 0 - 3 V across
wire W. Check that the +ve side of the ammeter A and the +ve side of the voltmeter V are both on
the +ve side of the battery B.
(b) Switch on the current. Adjust the rheostat to obtain five widely different values of V and
corresponding values of current I.
(c) Tabulate your results as follows:
Potential difference, V (V) Current, I (A)

(d) (i) Draw a circuit diagram

(ii) Plot a graph of potential difference V against current I
(iii) Find the slope of the graph
(iv) Determine the resistance of the wire W.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 41
 LABORATORY WORK 67
You are provided a switch K, a dry cell E, an ammeter A, a rheostat Rh, a resistor labelled X which
must be connected serially. Connect the voltmeter V, across the resistor X. Do whatever necessary to
collect five pair of readings on the ammeter and voltmeter.
Questions
(a) Draw the circuit diagram of your settings
(b) Tabulate your results
(c) Plot the graph of p.d against I
(d) Explain the shape of the graph
(e) Find the slope of the graph
(f) What does the slope indicate of your graph?
(g) Mention two possible sources of errors in this experiment and their precautions.
(h) State ohm’s law

LABORATORY WORK 68
In an experiment to verify ohm's law the circuit drawn below was used
Proceed as follows:-
(i) Connect in series the resistor R of unknown resistance, battery E (3V), a switch K, a
rheostat Rh of a few ohms and an ammeter A of 0 – 1A
(ii) Connect the voltmeter V of the 0 – 3V across R.
(iii) Check that the positive (+ve) terminal of the ammeter A and the positive (+ve) terminal
of the voltmeter V are both on the positive (+ve) terminal of battery E.
(iv) Adjust the rheostat until the value of the resistance is maximum.
(v) Switch on the current. Record the ammeter reading I (Amps) and voltmeter reading V
(Volts) in a tabular form
(vi) Adjust the rheostat to obtain five widely different values of V and corresponding values
of current I

(a) Tabulate your results of

P.d (v)
Current, I (A)
(b) Plot the graph of p.d against I
(c) Explain the shape of the graph
(d) Find the slope of the graph
(e) What does the slope indicate of your graph?
(f) Mention two possible sources of errors in this experiment and their precautions.
(g) State ohm’s law

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 42
 LABORATORY WORK 69
The figure bellow shows a meter-bridge with two resistors X and R connected for comparison
purposes. X has an unknown resistance while R has a known resistance.

You are provided with 2 dry cells D, unknown resistor X, a known resistor R, a switch K,
Galvanometer G and a Jockey J. A balance point C is found for the different values of
resistance of R. The value of d = AC is recorded.
a) Using a resistance of R = 1ῼ, find the balancing point along AB and call it C.
b) Repeat the procedure in a) above for the values of R = 2, 5, 7 and 8ῼ.
c) Tabulate your observation as shown below.
R (ῼ) 1 2 3 4 5
d (cm)
100
d
(i) Complete the table above
𝟏0𝟎
(ii) Plot a graph of R against 𝐝 (horizontal axis)
(iii) Find the slop S of the graph
(iv) Determine the intercept R0 on the R-axis
(v) Deduce the value of X
(vi) Suggest a suitable title for this experiment.
LABORATORY WORK 70
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of X by meter bridge method. Set up the
experiment as shown

Connect the unknown resistance X in a gap and 5  resistances in a gap of R as shown above. A cell
D is connected across AB. Connect a zero center galvanometer G and jockey J as shown in the
diagram above. Find the balance point along AB where no current flows through G when jockey is in
contact with AB at P.
Record the length L1 andL2. Interchange the position of X and R and record L1and L2
(a) Table of results
X at CD (  ) X at FH (  )
L1(cm)
L2(cm)
(b) Show expression to find X
(c) Calculate the resistance of X at CD
(d) Calculate the resistance of X at FH
(e) What is the importance of interchanging positions of X and R?
(f) Find the resistance X

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 43
 LABORATORY WORK 71
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of T by meter bridge method. Set up the
experiment as shown

Connect the unknown resistance T in a right hand side gap and a resistance box R in a gap of the left
hand side as shown above. A cell Z is connected across the circuit. Connect zero center galvanometer
G between C and jockey J. Find the balance point along AB where no current flows through G when
jockey is in contact with AB at P.
With R = 1  , obtain a balance point on the metre bridge wire AB using a jockey J. Note the length
L in centimeters. Repeat the experiment with R equal to 2  , 3  , 4  , and 5  .
(a) A table of result
R ( ) 1 2 3 4 5
L (cm)
1 1
(b) Plot the graph of R against L
(c) Write an expression to show how the graphs axis are related
(d) From the expression above, and using the graph how can the resistance T be obtained?
(e) Mention two sources of error

LABORATORY WORK 72
You are required to determine the unknown resistance labeled X using a meter bridge circuit.
Procedures
 Connect your circuit as shown below, where R is a resistance box is a galvanometer, J is a
jockey and other are common circuit components.

 With R = 1  , obtain a balance point on the metre bridge wire AB using a jockey J. Note the
length L in centimeters. Repeat the experiment with R equal to 2  , 4  , 7  , and 10 
1
(a) (i) Tabulate your results for R, L and 𝐿
1
(ii) Plot a graph of R (vertical axis) against 𝐿 ( horizontal axis)
(iii) Determine the slope S of your graph
1
(iv) Using your graph, find the value of R for which 𝐿 = 0.02
(b) Read and record the intercept Ro on the vertical axis.
100
(c) Given that 𝑅 = 𝐿 𝑥 − 𝑥 use the equation and your graph to determine the value of X
(d) Comment on your results in (a) (iii), (b) and (c) above

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 44
 LABORATORY WORK 73
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistivity of a wire given.
Proceed as follows
(a) Connect the cell, ammeter, tapping key, Rheostat and one metre resistance wire for which the
resistance and resistivity is to be determined.
(b) Switch on the current and adjust the rheostat to obtain suitable readings on the Ammeter and
voltmeter and take the readings.
(c) Apply Ohm`s law to calculate the resistance of the one metre resistance wire.
(d) Take the micrometer screw gauge provided to determine the diameter of the wire at three
different positions and find the average of the diameters
(e) Then determine the resistivity of the resistance wire.

LABORATORY WORK 74
You are provided with the apparatus.
Proceed as follows;
(a) Set up the circuit as shown in fig below

(b) Obtain a balance point when the length of the wire W, L= 15cm record the distance X
between A and P.
(c) Repeat the procedure for L= 20cm, 25cm, 30cm, 40cm and 50cm respectively.
1 1
(d) Tabulate the values of L, X, and
L X
1 1
(e) (i) Plot a graph of against
L X
(ii) Determine the slope S of your graph
(iii) From the graph obtain the values of X for L = 80cm
(iv) Find the slope S of the graph
(a) Determine the intercept Ro on the R- axis
(b) Deduce the value of X
(c) Suggest the suitable title for this experiment.

LABORATORY WORK 75
Connect the following items in series; the accumulator (or dry cell), the plug (or tapping key), the
resistor labeled P, and another resistor R = 1.0  . Use the voltmeter to measure the voltage V across
the resistor R and hence calculate the current I flowing through resistor R. Record the values of R, V
and I. Now repeat the procedure for values of R = 1.0  , 1.5  , 2.0  , and 3.5 
(a) Tabulate all the values of R, I and V.
(b) Plot a graph of V(vertical axis) against I (horizontal axis)
(c) Find the gradient D of the graph
(d) Where K is constant, determine the resistance r of the resistor P given that:-
𝑉 = 𝑘 − 𝑟𝐼

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 45
 LABORATORY WORK 76
You are required to determine the value of unknown resistance of a resistor labeled Rx.
Proceed as follows.
(a) Connect the given dry cell, ammeter switch and 1Ω resistor in series
(b) Close the switch and record the Reading I of the ammeter.
(c) Repeat part (a) and (b) above for values of resistor 3Ω, 5Ω, 7Ω, 9Ω, and Rx respectively.
1
(d) Record your results in include the value of
I
1
(e) (i) Plot the graph against R.
I
(ii) From the graph determine the value of Rx.
(iii) Calculate the slope of the graph.
(iv) Deduce the e.m.f. and internal resistance of the cell, r.

LABORATORY WORK 77
Determine the resistivity of the material of wire W by using Metre Bridge.

Procedure
Connect the given apparatus as shown in the fig above. The ends of the wire W should be connected
at the right hand gap of your metre bridge.
(a) Find the balance point (the point where there is no deflection in the Galvanometer G) of the
metre bridge circuit with the jockey J when the value of the known resistance P is 1.0 Ohm.
Read and record the lengths L1 and L2 as indicated in the diagram.
(b) Repeat the process in (a) above by replacing the known resistance P with values indicated in
the table below and always reading and recording their corresponding values of L1 and L2
P(  ) L1(cm) L2(cm) 𝐿1
𝐿2
1
3
5
8
10
15
(c) Complete the table of values.
(d) Measure the length L of the wire W given and the diameter D of that wire by using the
micrometer screw gauge.
L1
(e) Plot a graph of P (vertical axis) against (horizontal axis)
L2
(f) Determine the slope S of your graph.
(g) Given that 4α= πD2S where α is the resistivity of the wire W, calculate the resistivity of the
material of the wire W

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 46
 LABORATORY WORK 78
The aim of this experiment is to determine the e.m.f E and internal resistance r of the cell. Given 2 dry
cells, a number of standard resistors, an ammeter, a switch and connecting wires.

(a) A connect the circuit as shown in fig above. Put R = 1.0Ω and quick read the value of the
ammeter.
(b) Repeat the procedure in (a) above for values of R = 2Ω, 4Ω, 6 Ω and 8Ω.
(c) Tabulate the results as shown below in the table below
Resistance R (Ω) Current I (A) 1 1
I
A 
1
2
4
6
8
1
(d) Plot a graph of R against
I
E
(e) From the equation R  r
I
(i) Suggest how E and r may be evaluated from your graph
(ii) Evaluate E for one cell
(iii) Evaluate r for one cell
(f) State the sources of errors in this experiment suggest ways to reduce them.

LABORATORY WORK 79
The aim of this experiment is to determine the internal resistance of r and the emf E of the dry cell D.
(a) You are provided with a dry cell, an ammeter, voltmeter, key, and resistance box.
(b) Connect the apparatus so that you can get reading of ammeter and corresponding reading of
voltmeter which as to be connected parallel to the dry cell labelled D
(c) Set the resistance box to be 1Ω, read and record the ammeter and voltmeter readings
(d) Repeat the procedure for resistors of five different values between 2Ω and 10Ω inclusive.
(e) Draw a circuit diagram of arrangement used
(f) Draw a graph V on y- axis against I on x- axis.
(g) Write down the equation represented by the graph in terms of E, r, V and I
(h) From your graph find
(i) The values of electromotive force, E
(ii) The internal resistance, r
(iii) The maximum current the cell can deliver to the circuit.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 47
 LABORATORY WORK 80
The aim of this experiment is to get the value of the unknown resistance X
Procedures
(a) Connect the metre-bridge as shown below with two resistors X and 5 connected on the right
hand side gap of the metre bridge while the left hand side gap connected to a resistance box
labelled R.

(b) Connect the two (2) dry cells size D labelled E, Galvanometer G and a Jockey J as in the
diagram above.
(c) Obtain the balance point C when a galvanometer shows no deflection for the value of resistor
R = 1.
(d) Record the length, L1 = AC
(e) Repeat the procedures (a) above for the values of R = 2, 3, 4 and 5.
Questions:-
(i) Write your results in a tabular form as shown below
R ( ) 1 2 3 4 5
L1 (cm)
100
L2
L1
L2

𝟏00
(ii) Plot a graph of R() against 𝑳𝟐
(horizontal axis)
a) Find the slope S of the graph
𝟏00
b) Determine the intercept R0 on the R-axis when 𝑳 = 0
𝟐
c) Deduce the value of X
𝐿
(iii) Plot a graph of R() against 1(horizontal axis)
𝐿2
a) Deduce the slope, G of the graph.
b) What does the slope G, above signify?
c) Find the values of unknown resistance X. show clearly how you arrived to
your answer.
(iv) Give your comments on the differences existing between the two plotted graphs.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 48
 LABORATORY WORK 81
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of a voltmeter Rv and internal resistance r of
a battery. Proceed as follows;
(a) Connect the battery, switch, voltmeter, and 400Ω resistor in series and complete the circuit.
(b) Draw the circuit diagram you have connected.
(c) Close the switch and obtain the voltmeter reading V
(d) Increase the value of resistance to 1000Ω and repeat part (c) above
(e) Repeat step (d) for higher values of the resistance, increasing it in steps of 600Ω up to a
maximum of 4000Ω
(f) Tabulate your results of resistance R voltmeter reading V and 1/V
(g) Plot a graph of R against 1/V
(h) Use your graph to determine
(i) The resistance Rv of the voltmeter
(ii) The internal resistance r of the battery

LABORATORY WORK 82
An experiment to determine an e.m.f (E) and internal resistance (r) of a cell,
You are provided with a cell, a switch (K), a voltmeter (V) an ammeter (A) and a rheostat (R).
Connect the switch; rheostat, ammeter and a dry cell in series then connect a voltmeter
parallel to the dry cell as shown in this diagram below

With the key open, record the reading of the voltmeter, close the key and adjust the rheostat
so that the cell supplies a small current through the circuit. Record this current I (A) as
registered by the ammeter A, and the new reading V (volts) on the voltmeter. Keep the key
closed and adjust the rheostat so that a slightly larger current flows through the circuit. Again
record the values of I (A) and V (volts)
Repeat the procedure the procedures above to obtain a set of five pairs of readings of I and V,
each time slightly adjusting the rheostat to increase the current I.
i. Tabulate your observations as follows
Ammeter reading (A) Voltmeter reading (V)

ii. Plot a graph of V (vertical axis) against I (horizontal axis)

iii. Find the slope of your graph
iv. Assuming that 𝑉 = 𝐸 − 𝐼𝑟 where r is the internal resistance of the cell and E its
E.m.f, use your graph to determine r and E.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 49
 LABORATORY WORK 83
An experiment to determine an e.m.f (E) and internal resistance (r) of a cell, you are provided
with a cell, a switch (K), an ammeter (A) and a resistance box (R).
(a) Connect the apparatus given in series as shown in this diagram; below

Use a resistance R = 2 in the resistance box close the switch K and record the reading of
current I indicated by the ammeter A.
(b) Repeat the procedure in (b) above for the values of R = 4, 6, 8 and 10
(c) Tabulate your observations as follows

R() I(A) 1
(A-1)
I
2
4
6
8
10
1
(d) i) Plot a graph of against R
I
1
ii) Obtain the slope, S and intercept C
I
1 r
iii) Evaluate the values of E and r given that E = and C
S E

LABORATORY WORK 84
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of a wire P.
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Connect in series the length of wire P equals to 50cm of unknown resistance, battery B (3V), a
switch K, a rheostat R of a few ohms and an ammeter A of 0 – 1A connect the voltmeter V of the
0 – 3V across P. check that the +ve side of the ammeter A and the +ve side of the voltmeter V are
both on the +ve side of battery B.
(b) Switch on the current. Adjust the rheostat to obtain five widely different values of V and
corresponding values of current I
(c) Draw a circuit diagram
(d) Tabulate your results as follows:-
Potential difference V(Volts) Current I (amperes)

(e) Plot a graph of potential difference V against current I

(f) Find the slope of the graph
(g) Determine the resistance of the wire P.
(h) Mention two (2) precautions to be taken in this experiment

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 50
 LABORATORY WORK 85
The aim of the experiment is to verify the Ohm`s law
Proceed as follows;

Connect up the circuit as shown in the diagram. Close the key K and make contact with jockey J that
length AJ = 10cm. record the potential difference V between A and J.
Repeat this procedure for AJ = 20cm, 30cm… 90cm.
Note the current flowing through the circuit
Tabulate your results and plot a graph of V (vertical) against L (horizontal).
Calculate the slope S. using your graph, answer the following questions;
(a) (i) How could the actual resistance of any part of the wire be calculated?
(ii) Calculate the value of R for 100cm for slide wire S.
(b) If the current remains constant to what do you attribute the differences in the fall of potential
difference in different lengths of the wire?
(c) What proportion can be established between the falls in different parts of the circuit and the
resistance of those parts of the circuit?
(d) With the resistance of the wire constant, how does the fall of potential difference change with
the change of current

LABORATORY WORK 86
The aim of this experiment is to determine the e.m.f E and internal resistance r of a cell.
PROCEDURES:-
(a) Connect the apparatus as shown in the figure below

(b) Adjust R = 1 and quickly read the value the current I on the ammeter A.
(c) Repeat the procedure in 1(b) for R = 2 , 3 , 4 and 5
(d) Tabulate your results include the value of I-1
1
(e) Plot the graph of R against
I
(f) From your graph determine the value of E and r, given that E =I(R + r)
(g) State three possible source of errors and their remedy encountered in this experiment.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 51
 LABORATORY WORK 87
The aim of this experiment is to determine the value of unknown resistance labelled X.
Proceed as follows;
You are provided with two dry cells E each 1.5V, a voltmeter V, a resistance box, an unknown
resistor X and a plug key K.
Connect the circuit as shown in the fig below;

(a) Connect the voltmeter across R when R = 1  , measure and record the potential difference V
across R. calculate the corresponding value of the current I that flows through R.
(b) Repeat the procedure for values of R = 2  , 3  , 4  and 5  each time recording the value
of V and I. tabulate all the values of R, V and I for the experiment
(c) Plot a graph of V against I
(d) Find the slope S of the graph.
(e) Determine the value of X and the e.m.f, E used, given that V = E –Ir and r = X.
(f) Mention two sources of errors of this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 88
The aim of this experiment is to determine the e.m.f of the dry cell, E and its internal resistance, r
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Stretch and fix the bare wire onto a metre rule with a cellotape (or use a potential meter)
(b) Connect the 2, a voltmeter and a dry cell as shown bellow

(c) Place the jockey on the bare wire such that L = 20cm, record the voltmeter reading V
(d) Repeat procedure c) above for the value of L = 30cm, 40cm, 50cm and 60cm
respectively.
1
(e) Record the values of L, V and 𝑉 in a tabular form
1
(f) Plot a graph of against L
𝑉
(g) Find the slope S of the graph
1
(h) Find n which is the value of 𝑉 when L = 0
(i) Calculate the e.m.f of the dry cell E, from ES = 0.015cm-1
(j) Using the relationship r = 2 x n x (E-1), calculate the internal resistance r of the dry cell.
(k) State three source of errors and three precautions to be taken in this experiment

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 52
 LABORATORY WORK 89
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistivity of the wire W given, , and the internal
resistance, r, of the two dry cells provided.
Proceed as follows:-
(a) Stretch and fix the bare wire onto a metre rule with a cellotape (or use a potential meter)
(b) Connect the 2, an ammeter, two dry cells B and a wire W dry as shown bellow

(c) Place the jockey on the bare wire such that L = 20cm, record the ammeter readings A
(d) Repeat procedure c) above for the value of L = 40cm, 60cm, 80cm and 100cm each time
record the corresponding current, I (A) respectively.
(i) Record your results in a tabular form as shown below
Length, L (cm) of the wire W Current, I (A) 1 1
( )
𝐼 𝐴
20
40
60
80
100

1
(ii) Plot a graph of 𝐼 against L
1
(iii) Find the slope S of the graph and it’s 𝐼 -intercept
(iv) Using a micrometer screw gauge, measure and record the diameter d of the wire W
(v) Calculate the
a) The resistivity 
b) Internal resistance, r, of the dry cells given that,
4 1 𝑅+𝑟
𝑠= 2
𝑎𝑛𝑑 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 =
𝜋𝑑 𝐸 𝐼 𝐸
Where E is the e.m.f of the battery and R is the external resistor of the circuit

LABORATORY WORK 90
The aim of this experiment is to determine the e.m.f E and the value unknown resistor
marked X. Assume the internal resistance of your cell is functionless.
Procedures
 Connect in series a cell given, switch, an ammeter, a resistance box and X.
 Adjust a resistance box (R) into 1Ω and quickly read the value of the current I on the
ammeter.
 Repeat the procedure in b) above for the box (R) adjusted to 2Ω, 3Ω, 4Ω and 5Ω.
1
(a) Tabulate your results include the value of
I
1
(b) Plot the graph of R against
I
(c) From your graph determine the value of E and X.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 53
 LABORATORY WORK 91
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistivity of the wire given
(a) Set up the circuit as shown in fig above where B consists of two accumulators connected in
series and C is a piece of bare resistance wire. With the switch , K, open adjust the length L
of the wire C to a value 100cm. close K, and adjust the rheostat to give a current of about
1amp. Record the ammeter and voltmeter readings.
(b) Open K and reduce L by 10cm. close K and adjust the rheostat to reduce the current by
0.1amp. . Record the ammeter and voltmeter readings. Repeat the above procedure for five
other values of L.

(a) Tabulate your results and use them to plot a graph of resistance of the wire against L.
(b) Determine the gradient G of your graph
(c) Wind the resistance wire C closely on your pencil so as to obtain not less than 20 turns of the
wire. Measure the length of the coil and hence determine the diameter d of the wire.
(d) Calculate the resistivity α ,of the resistance wire C, given that
Gd 2

4
(e) Where G is the gradient of your graph and d is the diameter of the resistance wire.

LABORATORY WORK 92
The aim of this experiment is to determine the potential fall along a uniform resistance wire carrying a
steady current
Proceed as follows;

(a) Connect up the circuit as shown in the fig above. Adjust the rheostat so that when the sliding
contact J is near B and the key is closed the voltmeter V indicates an almost full scale
deflection. Do not alter the rheostat again.
(b) Close key K and make contact with J so that AJ = 10cm. record the potential different V volts
between A and J as registered on the voltmeter
(c) Repeat this procedure for AJ = 20cm, 30cm, 50cm and 70cm.
(i) Tabulate your results for values of AJ and v
(ii) Plot a graph of V(vertical axis) against AJ (horizontal axis)
(iii) Calculate the slope of the graph
(iv) What is your comment on the slope?
(v) State any precautions on the experiment

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 54
 LABORATORY WORK 93
You are required to find
i) The resistance of a wire P
ii) The resistivity of the material making wire P.
PROCEDURE
(a) Connect battery, rheostat Rh, key S, wire P and ammeter A in series, while voltmeter V
across P which is the given wire of length 50cm. By varying and adjusting the rheostat,
obtain FIVE systematic pairs of readings of ammeter and voltmeter.
(b) Draw the circuit diagram for your connection
(c) Tabulate your results as shown below
V (volts)
I (A)
(i) Plot a graph of V against I
(ii) Solve for the slope R of your graph
(iii) Measure thickness of the wire.
(iv) Use your slope R to evaluate the resistivity of the wire P.
(v) Find resistivity of the material from
RA
=
L
Where A = area
R= resistance
L = length

LABORATORY WORK 94
The aim of this experiment is to find the e.m.f of a cell B. you are provided with an accumulator A of
approximately 2V to act as your driver.
Proceed as follows
(a) Connect your apparatus as shown in the diagram above. Complete the circuit by connecting
points R at 40cm and adjust the length PQ for no deflection. Measure X, the length PQ.
(b) Repeat the experiment to give five more readings with Y, length of PR being 40cm, 50cm,
60cm, 70cm,80cm and 90cm.

(i) Record your readings in form of a table with column labeled X and Y
(ii) Plot a graph of Y against X
(iii) Find the slope M of the graph
(iv) Find the e.m.f of B from the expression below, where M is the slope
emfA
emfB 
M

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 55
 LABORATORY WORK 95
The aim of this experiment is to determine the potential fall along a uniform resistance wire
carrying a steady current
Proceed as follows
(a) Connect the circuit as shown in the figure above. Adjust the rheostat, Rh, so that when the
sliding contact J is near B, and the key, K is closed the voltmeter, V, indicates almost a
full scale deflection. Do not alter the rheostat again.

Rh
K E

A B

0cm J 100cm

V
(b) Close the key, K and make contact with J so that AJ = 10cm.
(c) Record the potential difference, V (volts) between A and J as registered on the voltmeter.
(d) Repeat the procedures above for the values of AJ = 30cm, 50cm and 70cm
(i) Tabulate your results for the values of AJ and their corresponding V(volts)
(ii) Plot a graph of V (vertical axis) against AJ (horizontal axis)
(iii) Calculate the slope of the graph.
(iv) What is your comment on the slope
(v) State any precautions to be taken during this experiment

LABORATORY WORK 96
You are provided with the apparatus which must be connected as shown in the circuit below.

R 1

Wire, W

L G

A X P B
100cm

E K
Procedures
(a) Obtain the length of the wire W, L = 15cm. Record the distance X, the length between A
and P
(b) Repeat the procedure above for L = 20cm, 25cm, 30cm, 40cm and 50cm and record the
values of their corresponding.
1 1
(c) Tabulate the values of L, X, 𝐿 and 𝑋
1 1
(d) (i) Plot a graph of 𝐿 against 𝑋
(ii) Determine the slope, S, of your graph
(iii) From your graph, obtain the value of X for L = 80cm

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 56
 LABORATORY WORK 97
Determine the resistivity β of the wire labelled W and the internal resistance of battery provided.
Proceed as follows;
(a) Connect the circuit as shown in the fig above. With the plug key open adjust the length of the
wire W to a value of 20cm. note the ammeter reading
NB; the plug key should remain open throughout the experiment
(b) Repeat the procedure above for Lw = 40cm, 60cm, 80cm, and 100cm each time record the
ammeter reading.

(a) Tabulate the results as shown in the table below

Length Lw (cm)
Current I (A)

I
 
1 1
A

(b) (i) Plot a graph of 1/I (vertical axis) against Lw (horizontal axis)
(ii) Determine the slope G.
(iii) Determine the intercept Y on the vertical axis
(a) Measure and record the diameter at four different places on the wire. Hence find the mean
value of diameter d.
(b) Given that
4 Rr
G Y Where E is e.m.f of the battery and R = 2Ω
d E and
2
E
Find the
(i) Resistivity β of the wire
(ii) Internal resistance r of the battery

LABORATORY WORK 98
The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of a wire W.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Connect in series the full length of wire W of unknown resistance, battery B (3V), a switch K,
a rheostat Rh of a few ohms and an ammeter A of 0-1A. Connect the voltmeter V of 0-3V
across W. Check that the +ve side of the ammeter A and the +ve side of the voltmeter V are
both on the +ve side of the battery B.
(b) Switch on the current. Adjust the rheostat to obtain five widely different values of V and
corresponding values of current I and tabulate your results as follows:
P.d, V (Volts)
Current, I (A)
(c) (i) Draw a circuit diagram.
(ii) Plot a graph of potential difference V against current I
(iii) Find the slope of the graph.
(iv) Determine the resistance of the wire W.
(v) Mention two (2) main precautions to be taken in this experiment.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 57
 LABORATORY WORK 99
The aim of this experiment is to determine the potential fall along a uniform resistance wire
carrying a steady current.
Proceed as follows:-
a) Connect up the circuit as shown in the figure above adjust the rheostat so that when the
sliding contact J is near Z, and the key is closed the voltmeter V indicates an almost full
scale deflection. Do not alter the rheostat again.
b) Close the key K and make contact with a jockey at J, so that YJ = 10cm. Record the
Potential difference V (Volts) between Y and J as registered on the voltmeter.

V
K

J
Y Z

c) Repeat this procedure for YJ = 20cm, 30cm, 50cm and 70cm.

i) Tabulate your results for the values of YJ and V
ii) Plot a graph of V(vertical axis) against YJ( horizontal axis)
iii) Calculate the slope of the graph.
iv) What is your comment on the slope
v) State any two (2) sources of errors and their precautions to be taken.

LABORATORY WORK 100

The aim of this experiment is to determine the internal resistance, r, of the cell provided.
Constantan wire

L(cm) Jockey

(a) Connect the circuit as shown above

(b) Adjust the distance L to 20cm
(c) Close the switch K
(d) Read and record the reading of the voltmeter V
(e) Repeat the procedures (b) to (d) for L = 30cm, 40cm, 50cm and 60cm.
1 1
(f) Tabulate your results including the values of 𝑉 and 𝐿
1 1
(g) Plot a graph of 𝑉 against 𝐿
(h) Find the slope, S, of the graph
1
(i) Read the intercept of 𝑉 axis
1
(j) Calculate the value of the reciprocal of 𝑉 intercept
1
(k) What does the value of the reciprocal 𝑉 physically represent?
(l) Calculate the internal resistance, r, of the cell from the relation
𝑉
𝑟 = 0.0795 𝑥 𝑠𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑒 (𝑆)
𝑐𝑚
(m) List down two possible sources of error and two precautions to be taken into account.

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 58
 LABORATORY WORK 101
You are provided with a dry cell, E, a resistance box, R, a voltmeter, V, a switch, K and
connecting wires
Proceed as follows
(a) Set up the electric circuit as shown below

R
K

(b) Set a resistance box R in a such a way its value = 1, close the switch and record the
voltmeter reading V
(c) Repeat the procedure in (b) above for the values of R equal to 2, 3, and 7
(a) Record your readings in a tabular form as indicated below
R () 1 2 3 7
V (Volts)
1 1
( )
𝑉 𝑣
1 1
( )
𝑅 
1 1
(b) Plot a graph of against
𝑅 𝑉
(c) From the graph in (e) above, determine
(i) Find the slope, of your graph
1
(ii) Read and record 𝑅 intercept
1 1
(d) Write the equation that connects 𝑅 and 𝑉
(e) Use the equation in (g) above and values obtained to determine electromotive force and
internal resistance of the dry cell.
(f) State any two sources of error in this experiment and their precautions.

LABORATORY WORK 102

In this experiment you are required to determine internal resistance of the dry cell.
(a) Connect in series the given dry cell of e.m.f, E a resistor R, ammeter A and switch K
(b) Draw the circuit connected in (a)
(c) Measure and record the values of current I when resistor R is 1Ω
(d) Repeat the procedure in (c) for values of R = 2Ω, 3Ω, 4Ω and 5Ω
(e) Write your data in a tabular form as shown below
R (Ω) I (A) 1 1
( )
𝐼 𝐴
1
2
3
4
5
1
(f) Plot a graph 𝐼 against R
(g) Find the slope of the graph
(h) Using the graph and value of slope determine the internal resistance of the cell

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 59
 LABORATORY WORK 103
You are provided with a dry cell, C, a resistance box, R, a voltmeter, V, a switch, S and two terminal
blocks A1 and A2 arranged as shown below

A1 A2
C

R
S
Procedures
(i) Using a resistance of R = 1 in the resistance box, close the switch and record the V reading
(ii) Repeat the procedure above for the values of R = 2, 4, 5 and 10
(a) Record your readings in a tabular form as indicated below
R () V (Volts) 1 1 1 1
( ) ( )
𝑉 𝑣 𝑅 
1
2
4
5
10
1 1
(b) Plot a graph of against
𝑉 𝑅
(c) From the graph
(i) Find the gradient, G, of your graph
1 1
(ii) Read and record N, which is the value of 𝑉 when the value of 𝑅 = zero. Then
1
calculate the value of 𝑁
1 1
(iii) Read and record M, which is the value of 𝑅 when the value of 𝑣 = zero. Then
1
calculate the value of 𝑀
𝑁
(iv) Show how 𝑀 is related to G
(v) What is the magnitude of the current supplied by the dry cell C?

LABORATORY WORK 104

You are required to plot the cooling curves for hot water in a calorimeter for the following cases:
(i) About half full of water (ii) About two-thirds full of water
Proceed as follows:
(a) Half fill with water a weighed calorimeter so that the temperature immediately after this
operation is about 60oC. Observe the temperature of the contents at intervals of two minutes
as it cools over the temperature of between 60oC – 45oC.
(b) Weigh the calorimeter and water after the experiment.
(c) Repeat the procedure in (a) and (b) above with the calorimeter about two thirds full of water.
(d) Plot both cooling curves in the same frame of axes.
(i) Use the two curves to obtain from them the ratio of the times taken to cool over the
following temperature intervals 60 oC – 50 oC, 60 oC – 45 oC and 55 oC – 45 oC.
(ii) Calculate the ratio of the total thermal capacities in the two experiments.
(iii) Comment on the ratio obtained in (i) and (ii) above.
(iv) Explain why the shapes of the two curves are different.
The specific heat for a copper calorimeter is 420 Jkg-1K-1
The specific heat for an aluminum calorimeter is 900 Jkg-1K-1

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 60
 LABORATORY WORK 106
The aim of this experiment is to investigate the manner in which a calorimeter containing hot water
cools down.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Fill cold water into the beaker provided. Heat the beaker and contents on a Bunsen burner (or
any suitable heater) until the water reaches a temperature of about 90oC.
(b) Now pour the hot water into the calorimeter until it is about three-quarters full and then set up
the calorimeter as illustrated in the figure below:-

(c) Carefully observe and record the temperature, 𝜃 of the water inside the calorimeter after every
two minutes. Continue this process while stirring the calorimeter until the temperature of the
water drops to about 50 oC.
(i) Tabulate the values of 𝜃 (in oC) and the corresponding values of time t (in minutes),
starting at t = 0. Also measure and record the room temperature, 𝜃 R.
(ii) Plot the cooling curve for the calorimeter and its contents using the table in (i) above.
(iii) Choose six points (𝜃,t) along the curve in (ii) above, then at each point draw the
tangent to the curve and then determine the gradient, G of the curve at the point. (iv)
(iv) Calculate and record the excess temperature, (𝜃 - 𝜃 R) corresponding to each of the
six points chosen. Hence make up a table that consists of values of G as well as
corresponding values of (𝜃 - 𝜃 R).
(v) Using the results in (iv) above, draw a graph of “Rate of cooling, G” against “Excess
Temperature, (𝜃 - 𝜃 R)”
(vi) Compare the results in (v) above with Newton’s law of cooling and make any
relevant comments

LABORATORY WORK 105

The aim of this experiment is to determine the specific heat capacity of the oil provided by the method
of cooling.
Proceed as follows:-
You are provided with a calorimeter whose specific heat capacity is known, oil, stopwatch, water and
thermometer (of range 0 -100 oC)
Pour about 120 cm3 of the oil in a beaker and warm it until it reaches a temperature of about 60 oC.
Weigh the calorimeter and place it on insulting supports as shown in the figure below

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 61
 (a) Measure 100 cm3 of the warm oil and pour it into the calorimeter.
(b) Record the temperature fall at intervals of 30 seconds until a temperature of about 45 oC is
reached. Reweigh the calorimeter with oil.
(c) Repeat the experiment using water in place of oil.
(d) Tabulate your results.
(e) Plot on the same scale, and axes of your graph paper, a graph of temperature,𝜃 against time, t
for both water and oil.
(f) Find the time, in seconds, for the water and the oil to cool by two degrees from the graph.
(g) Record these at t1 and t2 for water and oil respectively.
(h) Using the formula:-
𝑚𝑐 + 𝑚1 𝐶1 (𝜃2 − 𝜃1 ) 𝑚2 𝐶𝑤 + 𝑚1 𝐶1 (𝜃2 − 𝜃1 )
=
𝑡1 𝑡2
Where:-
m = mass of oil
m1 = mass of calorimeter
m2 = mass of water
c = specific heat capacity of oil
cw = specific heat capacity of water = 4200 Jkg-1K-1
c1 = specific heat capacity of calorimeter = 380 Jkg-1K-1
Calculate c, the specific heat capacity of the oil
(i) State any sources of errors and precautions taken.

LABORATORY WORK 107

The aim of this experiment is to determine the boiling points of liquids E and F and to find their rates
of cooling at 70 oC temperature under the conditions of the surroundings.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Using one of the beakers, take about 200 cm3 of the warm liquid E and heat it until it
boils. Note and record the boiling temperature, 𝜃 E of liquid E.
(b) Quickly transfer the beaker of boiling liquid E and place it on the wooden block
provided as shown in the figure below.

Note the temperature and immediately start the stop-watch.

(c) While stirring the liquid with your thermometer and constantly fanning with the
pieces of paper provided, note and record the temperature of the liquid E at two
minute intervals as it cools.
(d) Keep on fanning the beaker, stirring the liquid noting and recording the temperature
until the liquid has cooled to about 55 oC.
(e) Tabulate your values of temperature, 𝜃 and the corresponding time, t.
(f) Plot a graph of 𝜃 (vertical axis) against t (horizontal axis). Determine the rate of
cooling of liquid E at 70 oC.
(g) Repeat the steps (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) and (f) above for the liquid labeled F.
(h) Based on the rates of cooling at 70 0C
(i) What do you think liquid E is?
(ii) What do you think liquid F is?

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 62
 LABORATORY WORK 108
The aim of this experiment is to investigate the relation between the rate of loss of heat from a
calorimeter and the temperature excess over its surroundings under conditions of forced convection.
Proceed as follows:

(a) Put some water in the beaker provided and leave it to heat from the burner (or heater) till the
water boils.
(b) While the water is being heated set up the apparatus as shown in Fig. 7 where the calorimeter
is placed on a wooden base provided. Place the stirrer in the appropriate opening in the lid
and cover the calorimeter. Clamp one of the thermometers to pass through the other opening
in the lid so as to be able to read the temperature of the water.
(c) When the water in the beaker has boiled, transfer some to the calorimeter till the level of the
water in the calorimeter is about three quarters full.
(d) Read and record the temperature, 𝜃 of the water at every 2 minute intervals, beginning when
the temperature of the water is about 80 oC. As the experiment progresses, gently stir the
water and fan the calorimeter with some paper. Take your readings for 20 minutes.
(e) Using the other thermometer, read and record the room temperature at the beginning and at
the end of the experiment. Hence find the average room temperature, 𝜃o.
(i) Plot a graph of log10 (𝜃 - 𝜃o) against time, t.
(ii) Theoretically, the experiment obeys the relation:-
log10(𝜃 − -- -kt + constant.
(iii)
(iv) Determine the values of k and the constant. (iii) What is the physical meaning of k?

SOURCES OF ERRORS IN ELECTRICITY EXPERIMENT

In most experiments on electricity the errors may be due to;
(a) Loose connection on the connecting wire and knobs of the resistance box
(b) Heating effect of the wires when taking measurements slowly allowing the current passage
for a longer time which may alter the resistance value and hence voltage drop.
(c) Non-uniformity of the wire (in case of experiment involving metre bridge)
(d) Errors in measurement of length which may include parallax and zero error of the measuring
devices like ammeter or
(e) Zero errors of measuring instrument like ammeter, voltmeter and galvanometer
(f) Graphing error due to wrong calibrations on it, by being more or less than the needed values
(g) Uses of blunt pencil in drawing graph
(h) Taking very close points when calculating slopes from graph

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 63
 PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
(a) Soldering all connections and tightly connect all the wires and components
(b) Do not let the current flows in a closed circuit for a long time. (Switch off the current after
every reading.)
(c) Do not scratch the jockey over the resistance wires
(d) Zero error of the metre rule should be well-thought-out in your measurement
(e) Calibrate the voltmeter, ammeter etc. so that the reading is adjusted to a zero mark.
(f) Sharp pencil should be used in drawing graph
(g) Choose far point when calculating gradient
(h) Repetition in taking data and uses of average data should be done
(i) Avoid unnecessary estimation of data or truncation

THE END OF FORM IV SAMPLE PRACTICAL QUESTIONS

By Ben Mutalemwa
[email protected]
0713 575 000
0752 575 000
0736 575 000
0735 575 000
0776 575 000

Physics Form 4 –Practical Prepared by Ben Omulangira_ (0752 575 000) Page 64