These experiments are
designed to illustrate the experimental basis of mechanics and to
introduce you to the basic principles of
experimental physics -- quantitative measurement in a framework of
theoretical understanding and the assessment of accuracy
and uncertainty in measurements and experimental results.
To avoid lengthy and
time-consuming laboratory reports, most experiments will be
completed, including the report, in the
laboratory session. This is possible only
if you arrive prepared. Preparation includes careful reading
of the experiment and
completion of the Pre-lab, found at the end of each regular
experiment in the Laboratory Manual. The Pre-labs will be
collected
at the beginning of each session, and you may not be admitted to the
laboratory without having completed the Pre-lab.
Because an introduction to
mechanics is needed for almost all experiments, the laboratories
begin only after a number of lectures
in Phy 301 have been completed. However, you should obtain the
Laboratory Manual and begin reading immediately.
Considerable reading and preparation are required for Experiment 1.
Spring
2013
Using the computers in the laboratory, RLM 7.322:
Username: 101l-7322 (note
lower case l)
Password: 101l
Note that the laboratory does not begin immediately.
This schedule is intended to provide you with an introduction to the
material
in the lectures before doing the relevant experiments, but it leaves
little time for make-ups. You must do each of the experiments
at your scheduled time. Before the first experiment, you should obtain the Laboratory Manual from the
University Coop and read the Introduction,
Experiment 0, and related material. You may either
complete Experiment 0 and turn it in at the first meeting or
complete the work
during the laboratory period.