Investigations in Experimental Physics - Tenth Edition

Reviewed by Pradeep Kurup, Professor, University of Massachusetts Lowell on 6/2/25

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This is an excellent book thoroughly covers major areas of introductory experimental physics, including mechanics, energy, motion, thermodynamics, optics, and circuit analysis. The addition of PhET simulations are useful resources for students to practice. The document includes a detailed table of contents, which helps with overall navigation. However, the absence of a glossary or index limits its usefulness for quick reference, particularly for students. A chapter or module on magnetism and electromagnetism would further enhance the content.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content is accurate, well-aligned with fundamental physical principles, and free from detectable factual errors. The theoretical derivations and experimental procedures are clearly explained, and the exercises reflect real-world physics applications. There is no noticeable bias or misleading presentation.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

This is the 10th edition, reflecting continued updates to experimental design, graphics, and simulations. The content is relevant for physics labs in health sciences and kinesiology disciplines. The modular approach and digital format support longevity without rapid obsolescence.

Clarity rating: 5

The writing is accessible, with clear explanations of experimental setups, physical principles, examples and calculations. Technical terms are used appropriately and often defined within context. Step-by-step lab instructions and thoughtful diagrams support student understanding, particularly in challenging topics like projectile motion or torque.

Consistency rating: 5

The textbook maintains consistent formatting, terminology, and structure throughout. Each lab follows a predictable pattern: theory, materials, procedures, and data analysis. Variables and notation are used uniformly, which helps reduce confusion across chapters.

Modularity rating: 5

Each laboratory module is self-contained and can be taught independently or in reordered sequences without dependency on prior chapters. Clear subheadings, page organization, and lab numbering allow instructors to adapt labs to different courses or student pacing.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The book follows a logical progression from measurement fundamentals to more complex systems like energy conservation and fluid dynamics. The Table of Contents is extensive and well-organized, aiding navigation for instructors and students. Appendices offer additional support in data analysis and graphing.

Interface rating: 5

There are no significant interface issues. Diagrams, tables, and photos are clear and legible. The layout is structured for readability, even in dense theoretical sections. Visuals of lab equipment and example graphs are well-integrated with the content.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The textbook is grammatically sound, with professional language and sentence structure. Occasional minor typos or formatting variations (e.g., spacing around equations) do not detract from comprehension or quality.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

The text is free from cultural insensitivity or exclusion, though it is largely technical and does not explicitly address diversity. Opportunities exist to include more examples or scenarios relevant to a broader student demographic, especially in labs involving human biomechanics or real-world applications.

Comments

This book is a strong resource for institutions teaching physics. Its integration of physical lab work with video analysis, biomechanics applications, and digital simulations makes it pedagogically modern and engaging. The document would benefit from the inclusion of a glossary and some added cultural framing in examples, but overall, it offers a robust and adaptable platform for instruction.