How should I use a graph to find an experimental constant reliably?
First rearrange the physical law into y = mx + c and decide what each axis represents.
First rearrange the physical law into y = mx + c and decide what each axis represents. Plot all readings with units and draw a best-fit line rather than joining dots. Pick two far-apart points on that line, calculate Delta y/Delta x using the numerical scales, then translate slope m back to the required constant. Check its dimensions; a wrong unit often exposes a wrong rearrangement.
Key point
Linearise, best-fit, wide triangle, units, then interpret the slope.
Common mistake
taking adjacent noisy data points or reading the line's visual angle.
Memory tip
a large slope triangle reduces reading uncertainty.
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