Description

This module provides a basic foundation in experimental physics for Physics Majors on one-semester study-abroad programmes. It starts with a short series of lectures, supplemented with on-line notes, 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. An optional component of this module is particiption in the PHY0000 Communication and Key Skills course held in week T1:06.

Module Aims

Experiment is one of the central activities of a scientist. Experimental observations form the basis for new hypotheses, and also test scientific theories. In this module, you will learn to understand and apply the experimental method, develop your ability to make reliable measurements and 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, including the use of computers for data analysis;
  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 presentations (experiment write-ups and formal reports) in English;
  10. work with others (normally in pairs) on experiments;
  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. (optional) as specified in PHY0000 Communications and Key Skills component.

Syllabus Plan

Students are provided with a Laboratory Manual in which the experiments for this module are summarised. There is some choice of which experiments are undertaken. Each experiment is described in detail in a 2-4 page laboratory script.

General supervision and assistance are available in the laboratory from the demonstrators. Each demonstrator monitors the progress of the assigned pairs, taking a pastoral role and reporting any problems to the Module Coordinator. Feedback is given on each experiment during a 15-minute marking session with a demonstrator. For the oral presentation in the Student Conference, the assessment is made by all demonstrators with partial input from the students.

Note: The Communication and Key Skills course is an optional element of this module. It held over three days in the middle of term; this exercise is described in the PHY0000 component description.

Learning and Teaching

Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment

Notes: The order of experiments/assessments and the associated week numbers in the above table are indicative and will be confirmed by the module leader. Refer to the Undergraduate Handbook for details and marking criteria. Briefly, laboratory notebooks and reports are marked in one-to-one discussion between the student and a demonstrator.

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:

• Not applicable

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