Class 11 Physics begins with a very foundational chapter — Units and Measurements. This chapter sets the base for all future topics by helping students understand how physical quantities are measured and expressed. It covers the international system of units (SI units), types of errors in measurements, dimensions of physical quantities, and significant figures. Without having a solid grip on this chapter, solving numerical problems in later chapters becomes very difficult.
I decided to write about this topic because even though it seems simple at first, many students face issues when it comes to using correct units or understanding significant figures in calculations. When I was preparing for competitive exams like JEE, I realised how crucial this chapter was for solving questions accurately. Errors, conversions, and dimensional analysis show up everywhere — from mechanics to modern physics. Also, board exams usually ask direct questions like “State the rules of significant figures” or “Convert CGS units to SI units”, which are easy marks if your basics are clear. That’s why having the NCERT PDF for this chapter saved in your device is a must.
Topics Covered in NCERT Chapter 1 – Units and Measurements
This chapter includes all the basic tools needed to handle physical quantities in Physics. Below is a quick breakdown of the syllabus:
1. Physical Quantities and Units
- Definition of physical quantity
- Need for standard units
- International System of Units (SI units)
- Fundamental and derived units
2. Measurement of Length, Mass, and Time
- Methods of measuring small and large distances
- Use of devices like vernier callipers, screw gauge
- Mass measurement techniques
- Estimation of time intervals
3. Accuracy, Precision, and Errors in Measurement
- Types of errors: systematic and random
- Absolute error, relative error, percentage error
- Rules to minimise errors
- Error propagation in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
4. Significant Figures
- Definition and rules
- Use in calculations
- Importance in scientific measurements
5. Dimensions of Physical Quantities
- Dimensional formulae
- Uses of dimensional analysis
- Checking the correctness of equations
- Derivation of relations among physical quantities
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Click Here to Download NCERT Class 11 Physics Chapter 1: Units and Measurements PDF


















