A Levels Physics (9702)•9702/11/O/N/19

Explanation
Uncertainty propagation for P = V² / R
Steps:
- Identify relative uncertainty formula for P: δP/P = 2(δV/V) + δR/R, from partial derivatives.
- Substitute δV/V = 5% and δR/R = 2%.
- Calculate 2 × 5% = 10%.
- Add uncertainties: 10% + 2% = 12%.
Why D is correct:
- The rule for percentage uncertainty in a quotient/power states it adds as 2×(uncertainty in V) + (uncertainty in R) for P = V²/R.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Ignores squaring of V, underestimates by using 5% + 2%.
- B: Adds uncertainties directly without doubling V's contribution.
- C: Averages or misapplies the doubling for V².
Final answer: D
Topic: Errors and uncertainties
Practice more A Levels Physics (9702) questions on mMCQ.me