Investigations in Experimental Physics - Tenth Edition

• Foreword
• Measurement
• Vectors
• Kinematics
• Dynamics and Equilibrium
• Work, Energy, Momentum, and Conservation Laws
• Circular and Rotational Motion
• Simple Harmonic Oscillations
• Fluid Statics and Dynamics
• Thermodynamics
• Wave Motion and Sound
• Basic Electrostatics and Circuit Analysis
• Geometric Optics
• Appendices

As stated in previous editions, the purpose of the physics laboratory is not only to reinforce the physical principles studied in the classroom but also to stimulate the development of skills and techniques required to carry out well-designed experimental investigations. It is the hope of the authors that the experimental skills and techniques acquired in this laboratory will be carried over by the student to their respective areas of interest. It is, in fact, strongly suggested that the student make an effort early in their undergraduate career to become familiar with the current research problems in their area of interest. The student should always be aware of the applicability of skills
and techniques developed in this laboratory to their field of study. 

This manual can be used in a one semester or two semester course. At our institution, we use it in a two semester General Physics course designed primarily for health science majors (Physical Therapy, Biology, Physician Assistant, etc.). It it also used in a one semester Physics for Movement Science course designed for movement science majors (Exercise Science, Athletic Training, Physical Education, etc.).

The tenth edition of the manual is a major revision of the ninth edition. Nearly all of the diagrams were updated, pictures of the lab equipment were included for every lab, and more tables were added to record data for each lab. Six new labs on Vector Addition and Subtraction with Applications, Graphical Interpretation, Motion Analysis, Applications of Rotational Equilibrium, Impulse-Momentum Vertical Jump Application, and Basic Exploration of Electric Fields Due to Point Charges were added. In addition, three older labs that we no longer have equipment to perform were removed (Hygrometry, Measurement of the Speed of Sound in Air by Kundt’s Method, and Spectrometry). Many of the other labs were also updated and supplemented by adding a simulation component using the Phet online simulations. 

The student is required to read and understand the entire laboratory experiment before their assigned laboratory period. Although the theoretical treatment included in the following experiments is in most cases sufficient for the student to develop a complete understanding of the physical principles involved in the experiment, it is strongly recommended that the student refer to their textbook for a more thorough discussion of these principles, if necessary.