Measuring Length and its Accuracy

Measuring Length and its Accuracy A ruler is used to measure the length of an object. It is also used to measure the length of a straight line.

A ruler is used to measure the length of an object. It is also used to measure the length of a straight line. A non-stretchable string or thread is used to measure the length of a curved line. Procedure to Measure the Length of an Object (or) a Staight Line First place the ruler along the edge of the object that is to be measured, with the zero mark of the ruler placed at one end of the object. On the ruler, note the reading at the other end of the object. This gives the measure of the length of the object. The same procedure can be followed to measure the length of a straight line. Procedure to Measure the Length of a Straight Line Using a Damaged Ruler Place the broken or damaged ruler along the edge of the object that has to be measured in such that any visible mark coincides with one end of the object. Now note the reading on the ruler at the other end of the object. The difference between the two readings is the length of the object.

Accuracy Whatever method you use, always look at the ruler with the eyes directly in the line with the reading and not in an oblique way to obtain the readings accurately. Procedure to Measure the Length of a Curved Line Take a non-stretchable string or a thread and tie a knot at one of its ends. Place the knotted end of the thread at one end of the curved line. Holding the thread steadily with your fingers, and stretch it along the curved line until you reach the other end. Now make a mark on the thread where it reaches the other end. Finally, place the thread along a metre scale and measure the length between the knot and the marked point. This gives the length of the curved line.