Physics is an experimental science. The theoretical concepts and relationships
introduced in the lecture part of the course describe the general nature
and behavior of real phenomena. They were, appropriately, discovered
by (or inducted from) careful observation and thoughtful analysis of
actual experiments. Genuine understanding entails being able to relate
the abstract ideas to the particular facts to which they correspond.
The premise of the scientific method is that (observation of) nature
is the ultimate judge of the truth of any physical theory. Indeed, experiments
designed to prove certain ideas have often ended up showing them to be
wrong. Consequently, all physical concepts must be verified experimentally
if they are to be accepted as representing laws of nature.
Accordingly, the introductory physics laboratories have the following
purposes and goals:
- To provide an experimental foundation for the theoretical concepts
introduced in the lectures. It is important that students have an
opportunity to verify some of the ideas for themselves.
- To familiarize students with experimental apparatus, the scientific
method, and methods of data analysis so that they will have some
idea of the inductive process by which the ideas were originated. To
teach how to make careful experimental observations and how to think
about and draw conclusions from such data.
- To introduce the methods used for estimating and dealing with
experimental uncertainties, including simple ideas in probability theory
and the distinctions between random (statistical) and systematic "errors." This
is essential in understanding what valid conclusions can be deduced
from experimental data and that, properly obtained, these conclusions
are valid, notwithstanding the uncertainty of the data.
- To learn how to write a technical report which communicates scientific
information in a clear and concise manner.
- To introduce new concepts and techniques which have a wide application
in experimental science, but have not been introduced in the standard
courses. These may require that the student consult additional textbooks.
The laboratory is not a contest whose object is to get the "right answer." The
purpose is to learn how to gain knowledge by looking at reality, not
an attempt to make reality conform to preconceptions. The important thing
is to learn how to be observant, to really see what happens, and to deal
with this information with the strictest integrity. And to understand,
or learn to understand, the meaning of what happens.
Even if you get results totally at variance with theory (as may happen
due to a mistake, or a systematic uncertainty) you will get a high grade
if you report it honestly and demonstrate that you understand what you
did and how your results occurred. (If you have trouble interpreting
your results, contact your TA for help.) On the other hand, if you get
perfect agreement with theory by faking your data you will fail.
Practical ability to do experiments and analyze data is usually acquired
through practice and experience. Practice is very important in learning
any new discipline; such as, for example, a new language. A good lecture
may be very helpful but not fully useful without actual practice. In
experimental science, practice involves solving many problems (i.e. homework)
and performing a variety of experiments (i.e. labs). Practice is essential
to being able to make the connection between theory and experience.
Last updated on
Friday, September 16, 2005 11:14
