Physics laboratoriesLaajuus (3 ECTS)

Objective

On completion of the course, the student becomes familiar with common measuring devices, and learns how to conduct simple experiments in physics. The student acquires the ability to analyze and interpret the results of the measurements, and learns to recognize the inherent experimental uncertainties and to estimate their bearing on the final results.
The student understands that scientific advances in physics require constant interplay between theory and experiment.
The student learns how to produce organized, concise and well-written laboratory reports.

Content

Experiments
Measuring devices and systems
Analysis and interpretation of the measurement results
Writing laboratory reports

Qualifications

Most laboratory experiments are related to the contents of the preceding theory courses in physics.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student attends all the laboratory sessions and participates in the measurements and data analysis. Supported by the fellow students and the teacher, the student manages to perform the experiments, interpret the data, assess the uncertainties of the results, and compose the laboratory reports.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student exhibits independence and self-reliance by requiring little or no support in the various tasks of the laboratory course, from performing the measurements to writing the report. The student returns the reports within the given time-frame, the reports are well-organised, and the crucial stages as well as the essential contents of the assignments are easily perceived from the reports.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Besides self-reliance, the student also exhibits decisiveness and meticulousness in the given assignment. The student is also capable of guiding other students both in experiments and data interpretation and analysis. The reports are well-organised and self-contained, so that they convey to the reader a clear and deep understanding of the reported topic.

Further information

Attendance to all laboratory sessions is mandatory.