Phys 223 Spring 2025
Laboratory Physics I
Laboratory experiments coordinated with lecture topics in Phys 213
Course Information
Course Resources
Current and Upcoming Experiments
Objective
Students will qualitatively analyze the kinematic equations by graphing a student, then objects, in motion to enhance graph analysis and graphing skills.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- Prelab
- Worksheet Provided in Lab
Objective
After measuring the parameters of a horizontally launched steel ball, we will exercise our knowledge of projectile motion to predict the landing point of that same steel ball when it is fired at an inclined angle. Random Error will be introduced and used in our analysis.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- Prelab
- Lab Report Datasheet Provided in Lab
Objective
Students will add vectors graphically, analytically, and physically using a force table.
Lab Material
Objective
In varying the force on, and the mass of a system, we will examine the dynamics of that system through the lens of Newton's Second Law.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- Prelab
- Worksheet Provided in Lab
Objective
Students will measure the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between a wooden block and a wooden plane.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- No Prelab this Week
- Lab Report Data Table Provided in Lab
Additional Information
Objective
Students will determine the velocity of a steel ball as it leaves a launcher and is caught by a ballistic pendulum by using conservation of energy and conservation of momentum.
Lab Material
Objective
Students will measure torques on a rigid body in order to determine the conditions for static equilibrium.
Lab Material
Objective
Students will determine the moment of inertia of a rotating system, alter the system, and accurately predict the new moment of inertia.
Lab Material
Objective
The objective of this lab is to investigate the buoyant force acting on a variety of objects, the density of the objects, and the density of our tap water.
Lab Material
- No Theory and Procedure this Week
- No Prelab this Week
- Worksheet
Objective
Students will investigate simple harmonic motion using a simple pendulum and an oscillating spring. Students will also determine the spring constant of the spring.
Lab Material
Completed Experiments
Objective
Lab Material
- No Theory and Procedure this Week
- No Prelab this Week
- No Worksheet this Week
Additional Information
Objective
Students will familiarize themselves with the basics of scientific measurement. These basics include units, significant figures, and scientific uncertainty.
Lab Material
- No Theory and Procedure this Week
- No Prelab this Week
- Worksheet Provided in Lab
Objective
Students will learn the proper technique for using several measuring instruments. These instruments will be used to determine the density of a given, sample object. Proper use of significant figures will be emphasized and a method for error propagation will be taught.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- No Prelab this Week
- Worksheet Provided in Lab
Additional Information
Objective
In this lab, we will learn graphical techniques for analyzing data.
Lab Material
- Theory and Procedure
- Prelab
- Worksheet Provided in Lab