Labelling Graphs & Tables (OCR A Level Physics)

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Graph & Table Labelling Conventions

  • There are specific conventions for labelling physical quantities in columns of data in tables and on graph axes

Table Conventions

  • When labelling table headings, the symbol is presented first, then a forward slash and the unit
    • e.g. Current with unit Amps – I / A

  • The general convention for tables:
    • The independent variable goes in the column on the left
    • The dependent variable goes in the column on the right

  • Sometimes, powers of tens are also included with the unit, such as t / × 102 s
    • This means the column of data has been divided by 100 to save repeating lots of zeros in the table
    • If the values of t in the table or axes on the graph are 1, 2 and 3, the actual values obtained for t are 100 s, 200 s and 300 s

  • Any processed data (eg. averages) should be in columns to the far right
  • All units should be in the table headings, not in the body
  • Any raw data should be recorded to the resolution of the measuring instrument
  • All data of the same type must be recorded to the same number of decimal places
  • An example table and graph is shown below for a Velocity v Time graph:

Units, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

The convention for labelling tables and graphs

Graph Conventions

  • When labelling graphs:
    • The independent variable should be plotted on the x-axis
    • The dependent variable should be plotted on the y-axis

  • Each axis should be labelled with the quantity and unit, separated by a forward slash just like the table headings
  • The graph must cover over 75 % of the space provided
    • This means either axis does not always have to start at 0

  • The only exception to this is that a y-intercept must always be read from an axis that starts at x = 0
  • A suitable scale must be used for each axis to provide this (in steps of 1, 2, 5 or a multiple of 10)
  • When calculating a gradient, draw a triangle that covers at least 75 % of the data points
  • Similar to table headings, powers of tens may also be included with the unit on the axes labels, such as t / × 102 s
  • The data points should be made with a small sharp pencil
    • The general convention is to put an 'x' instead of a dot, as this is clearer to see on graph paper

  • A line of best fit should have roughly equal points on either side and should not be forced through the origin
    • It must also be a thin line that is clear, drawn using a straight edge or ruler

Graph Conventions, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

An example of a correctly labelled and plotted graph

Examiner Tip

One way to remember which axis is labelled with the independent and dependent variable is that the word 'independent' is a longer word and therefore 'sinks' to the bottom axis (the x axis)

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Ashika

Author: Ashika

Expertise: Physics Project Lead

Ashika graduated with a first-class Physics degree from Manchester University and, having worked as a software engineer, focused on Physics education, creating engaging content to help students across all levels. Now an experienced GCSE and A Level Physics and Maths tutor, Ashika helps to grow and improve our Physics resources.