Description

This module provides a broad foundation in experimental physics, upon which practical work in Stage 2 and subsequent years builds. It starts with a short series of lectures, supplemented with a problem set, on error analysis and graph plotting. Laboratory work is normally undertaken in pairs, with support from demonstrators. Experiments are recorded in lab-books and presented as formal reports. The last of the experiments is done as a larger group and involves joint work on a poster, presented in a conference-like environment, and a formal report. Another component of this module is the PHY0000 Communication and Key Skills course.

Module Aims

Experimentation is one of the central activities of a scientist. Experimental observations form the bases for new hypotheses and test scientific theories. In this module, you will learn to understand and to apply the experimental method, and develop your ability to make reliable measurements and to report them in an effective and ethical manner.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

A student who has passed this module should be able to:

• Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  1. plan and execute experimental investigations;
  2. apply and describe a variety of experimental techniques;
  3. identify, estimate, combine and quote experimental errors and uncertainties;
• Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  4. keep accurate and thorough records;
  5. discuss and analyse critically results of investigations;
  6. minimize experimental errors and uncertainties;
  7. demonstrate awareness of the importance of safety within the laboratory context and of the relevant legislation and regulations;
  8. identify the hazards associated with specific experimental apparatus, and comply with the safety precautions required;
  9. deliver written reports and poster presentations;
  10. work in a team (working in pairs on standard experiments and in groups of four or more for extended experiments and poster presentations);
  11. manage time (meeting deadlines for assignments);
  12. use computers for data analysis and collection;
  13. collect, analyse and report data and conclusions in an ethical manner;
• Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
  14. interact with demonstrators in a laboratory environment;
  15. as specified in PHY0000 Communication and Key Skills component.

Syllabus Plan

General guidance on the module, experiments, data analysis and result reporting is provided in the Laboratory Manual. Each experiment is described in a laboratory script.

General supervision and assistance are available from the demonstrators during the timetabled practical sessions. Each demonstrator conducts the initial discussion and monitors the progress of the assigned students, taking a pastoral role and reporting any problems to the module leader. Feedback is given during an assessment and feedback discussion with a demonstrator. Poster presentations in the Student Conference are assessed by demonstrators.

Note: The Communication and Key Skills content and activities are described in the PHY0000 component description.

Learning and Teaching

Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment

Notes: Refer to the Undergraduate Handbook for details and marking criteria. Briefly, lab-books and reports for standard experiments are marked in a one-to-one assessment and feedback discussion involving a demonstrator; reports for the extended experiment are marked by two demonstrators, without final discussions; marking of poster presentations involves multiple demonstrators and may be moderated via peer assessment.

Resources

The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).

Core text:

• Not applicable

Supplementary texts:

• Young H.D. and Freedman R.A. (2015), University Physics with Modern Physics (14^th edition), Pearson, ISBN 978-1-292-10031-9

ELE:

• http://newton.ex.ac.uk/redirects/ELE/phy1027

Further Information

Prior Knowledge Requirements

Re-assessment

Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.

Notes: Re-assessment is not available for this module.

KIS Data Summary

Miscellaneous