Physics Laboratory (Foundation) (F3086)

Key facts

Details for course being taught in current academic year
Level 0  -  24 credits  -  autumn, spring and summer terms

E-learning links

Study Direct: F3086 (09/10)

Resources

Timetable Link

Course description

Course outline

Data analysis, including error propagation. Line fitting. Use of Excel. Simple laboratory experiments investigating mechanics, optics, heat, electricity. Report writing. Oral presentations.

Learning outcomes

This laboratory course aims to familiarize students with the basic skills needed to perform scientific experiments.
By the end of the course the successful student will be able to

Demonstrate familiarity with simple scientific instruments

Make accurate measurements and keep records of observations

Analyze and interpret data, including evaluating uncertainties

Write scientific reports on experiments

Make a high-quality oral presentation of an experiment.

Library

Each workshop or experiment will have its own script, with references where necessary.
Two general references are:

“Experimental Measurements: Precision, Error and Truth” by N.C. Barford
(Addison Wesley).

“Practical Physics” by G.L. Squires (Cambridge).

Assessments

Resit mode of assessment

Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

Teaching methods

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Contact details

Prof Philip Harris

Assess convenor, Convenor
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/profile8102.html