You are asked to find the Young modulus for a metal using a sample of wire. *(a) Describe the apparatus you would use, the measurements you would take and explain how you would use them to determine the Young modulus for the metal.

Apparatus: The wire is secured by a clamp and clamp stand A hanging mass is attached to the end of it, where the mass hung can be changed A Vernier scale or ruler may be attached to the apparatus to measure the distance the wire has extended Measurements: The initial length of the wire can be measured using a ruler (or metre rule) The wire diameter can be measured with a micrometer The mass attached can be measured using weighing scales (or by using known masses) The extension can be measured using a Vernier scale (or ruler) for a range of different masses Calculating Young’s Modulus: E= stress/strain                     So E is the gradient of a stress-strain graphStress=F/A=mg/πr2 Strain= extension/initial length            Readings for extension can therefore be taken for different masses.   The stress and strain can be calculated and plotted on a graph, and E can be measured from its gradient.

RH
Answered by Robert H. Physics tutor

8005 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

An aeroplane lands on the runway with a velocity of 50 m/s and decelerates at 10 m/s^2 to a velocity of 20 m/s. Calculate the distance travelled on the runway.


The electric potential energy of two protons is 1.0MeV. Calculate their separation


Calculate the kinetic energy of a proton moving at 95% of the speed of light. (c = 3x10^8 m/s, m_p = 1.67x10^-27 kg) [4 marks]


What is a vector quantity


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning