Phys 223   Spring 2025

Laboratory Physics I

Laboratory experiments coordinated with lecture topics in Phys 213


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

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

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

Objective

Students will measure the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between a wooden block and a wooden plane.

Lab Material

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

Additional Information

Objective

In this lab, we will learn graphical techniques for analyzing data.

Lab Material