PHYS 107: Gravitation to Levitation

All labs will run in KPTC 311.

One of the main purposes of the physics labs in this course is to learn how scientists study the world around them. With a focus on the scientific process of asking questions and doing an experiment, students can learn how to think like a scientist.

Each lab has a similar structure.

• Students will work in groups of 2 or 3.
  • All students are expected to contribute ideas to the notebook.
  • All students are expected to work with the equipment and get experience handling apparatus and taking data.
• Each group will keep an electronic lab notebook.
  • The group should work on the notebook throughout the period, and the TA may ask to look at as they walk around checking on groups.
  • It is not formal, but it should be neat and organized.
  • It is a record of work done, and it is a place to make sketches, do quick calculations, or to write thoughts or questions.
  • Do not delete or erase. Instead, carefully indicate sections that you want to change (e.g. by making them a different color and adding a note); the notebook is a record of everything, including mistakes.)
• The group notebook also functions like the report for the group, in that it contains all your conclusions, discussion, and results. In addition to text, feel free to include photos or drawings in the report.
  • Did you build something? Make a sketch.
  • Did you observe something? Record what you see.
  • Did you ask a question? Write it down.
  • Did you collect data? Make a table.
  • Did you calculate quantities? Show your work.
  • Did you make a plot? Put a copy in the report.
• Groups also have access to a whiteboard to share thoughts and ideas with each other and with other groups.

All work will be handed in at the end of the period. There are no pre-labs or post-lab assignments.