Chronology Current Month Current Thread Current Date
[Year List] [Month List (current year)] [Date Index] [Thread Index] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Date Prev] [Date Next]

Re: Linearizing Graphs



On Tue, 19 Oct 1999, Ed Schweber wrote:
If we want to force a graph exeperimental data for period, T, of a
pendulum vs its length, L, into being a straight line we usually plot T^2
vs. L. But a graph of T vs sqrt(L) would also be linear and seems to be
easier for students to understand. Is there any reason besides convention
for doing it one way as opposed to the other?
There are often more ways than one to force a linearizing
transformation; but, if you are after parameters of the fit, e.g. slope,
intercept, etc., you have to include appropriate, different weightings for
different fits to get consistent values.

When we linearize data for a discharging capacitor (potential, V, vs.
time, T) I can see an advantage to plottimg lnV vs. T rather than V vs
^^^^
e^(-t). Is what we do with pendulums just a carry over of this pattern?
^^^^^ Hunh?

John N. Cooper, Chemistry
Bucknell University
Lewisburg PA 17837-2005
jcooper@bucknell.edu
http://www.facstaff.bucknell.edu/jcooper
VOX 570-577-3673 FAX 570-577-1739