An experiment was set up to measure g, the acceleration due to gravity - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 1 - 2017

The measurements taken to calculate g include:

1. Distance (d): This is the length of the pendulum or the height from which the object is dropped. It is measured using a meter stick.
2. Time (t): The time taken for the object to fall is recorded using a stopwatch or timer. The time for multiple drops might be measured to improve accuracy.

These measurements are taken by:

• Dropping the object from a known height (distance) and starting the timer simultaneously as the object is released.
• Stopping the timer once the object passes a reference point, like a picket fence.

The measurements are used to calculate g using the formula:

$g = \frac{2d}{t^2}$

Where:

• d is the distance fallen.
• t is the time taken for the fall.

The procedure involves substituting the measured distance and time values into the formula to compute g. For instance, if the distance was measured as 5 m and the time was recorded as 1.0 s, substituting the values gives:

$g = \frac{2 \times 5}{(1.0)^2} = 10 \, \text{m/s}^2$

To ensure accuracy in the measurement of g, the following precautions could be taken:

1. Avoid Parallax Error: Ensure that the measuring instrument (like the ruler or meter stick) is viewed at eye level to avoid misreading the measurement.
2. Minimize Air Resistance: Conduct the experiment in a controlled environment where air currents are minimized to ensure the object falls freely without other forces acting on it.