In One of the First Attempts to Discover the Speed

question 19

Multiple Choice

In one of the first attempts to discover the speed of light, Simon Newcomb in 1882 made 66 measurements of the time light takes to travel between the Washington Monument and his laboratory on the Potomac River. Why did Newcomb repeat his measurement 66 times and take the average of the 66 as his final result?

• A) Averaging several measurements reduces any bias that is present in the instruments.
• B) The average of several measurements is more reliable (less variable) than a single measurement.
• C) Even if a measuring process is not valid, averaging several measurements made by this process will be valid.
• D) Both A and B are correct.
• E) Answers A, B, and C are correct.

---

Definitions:

Critical Race Theory

An intellectual framework that examines society and culture as they relate to categorizations of race, law, and power, emphasizing the impact of systemic racism.

Theoretical Approaches

Frameworks or models that offer explanations for complex phenomena by outlining key principles and variables.

Crime

An action or omission that constitutes an offense and is punishable by law.

Law

A set of regulations established and implemented by social or governmental bodies to govern conduct.