Physic 1115: General Physics I Laboratory Study Notes

Physic 1115: General Physics I Laboratory Overview

AAPT Goals

Analyzing and Visualizing Data
Developing Technical and Practical Skills
Communicating Physics

Objectives

Introduce students to some basic equipment used in lab.
Introduce students to using Vernier Graphical Analysis (VGA) for data collection and analysis.
Introduce students to editing graphs for lab submission.
Introduce students to submitting lab activities.

Prelab Questions

On what principle does the motion detector work?
a. It sends out a pulse of sound from the sensor that bounces off an object and comes back. It measures how far an object is from the detector.
b. It sends out a pulse of light from the sensor that bounces off an object and comes back. It measures how far an object is from the detector.
c. It sends out a pulse of sound from the sensor that bounces off an object and comes back. It measures the speed of an object from the detector.
d. It sends out a pulse of light from the sensor that bounces off an object and comes back. It measures the speed of an object from the detector.
The motion detector plugs into …
a. Channel sensor
b. Digital sensor
c. Analog sensor
d. USB
Which image is the “View Options” button in the VGA toolbar?
a. (Refer to images)
Students open the “Plot Manager” by clicking the …
a. Vertical axis label
b. Horizontal axis label
Which image would you select to access analysis tools such as statistics, curve fits, and integral?
a. (Refer to images)
Incorrectly formatted lab submissions will be graded as a 0 after week 1.
a. True
b. False

Laboratory Overview

The topic from week to week in lab will change, but the foundation of using Vernier Graphical Analysis (VGA) for data collection, analysis, and editing graphs will remain the same.
It is imperative that everyone knows how to use VGA as there is a lab practical at the end of the semester that can significantly impact the course grade.
The post-lab assignments will require students to use VGA to answer questions.
Group dynamics are important; one student should not take charge of VGA entirely to ensure collaborative learning.
The lab aims at developing data analysis skills.

Introduction to Mechanics Data

Mechanics data is derived from the collection of an object's position at different times.
Various detectors can collect this data; this lab specifically uses a motion detector.
For operational principles, refer to the provided link/QR code.

Activities and Investigations

Activity 1-1: Software and Hardware Check

Ensure familiarity with basic measuring tools and the layout of VGA.
Students will gain practice in analyzing position-time, velocity-time, and acceleration-time graphs.

Investigation 1

A basketball will be placed at rest on a table in front of the motion detector.
Data collection will begin as the basketball is rolled off the table.
Students must identify time ranges corresponding to the ball’s behavior on the graph.
Tasks include scaling the graph and utilizing tools: Statistics, Integral, Curve Fit for analysis.

Equipment Needed

LabQuest
Motion detector
Basketball

Procedure for VGA Setup

Device Connection:
- Ensure the LabQuest is powered and connected to the computer via USB.
- The LabQuest interfaces the motion detector for data collection.
Open Software:
- Locate and launch Vernier Graphical Analysis software on the computer.
- Verify if LabQuest is correctly connected; if not, the interface will not display correctly.
Connect the Motion Detector:
- Connect the motion detector to the LabQuest in the port labeled Dig/Sonic 1.
- The software should update to show graphs upon proper connection.
- Collect button availability indicates readiness for data collection.
Understanding the VGA Toolbar:
- Learn various buttons:
  - Collect: Initiates data collection.
  - Data Sharing: Allows viewing from another computer.
  - Replay Data: Repeats data collection.
  - View Options: Changes display settings for graphs and data.
  - Other Options: Access help resources or software updates.
Setting Up Graphs:
- Set up the software to display a single graph by selecting "1 Graph" from the menu.
  - Toggle settings for vertical (position) and horizontal (time) axes if not automatically set.
Verifying Sensor Functionality:
- Place a meter stick in front of the motion detector; observe readings by keeping a hand in various positions.
- Verify that the graph reflects the actual measured positions accurately.
Data Collection Practice:
- Collect position data as the hand motion is varied.
  - Questions in this practice will address the limitations of the motion detector, including proximity limitations and interference.

Activity 1-2: Rolling the Ball off the Table Procedure

Graph Preparation:
- Display position-time and velocity-time graphs separately using View Options.
- Use the Graph Options button for analysis tools for each graph.
Making Predictions:
- Students will make a prediction of the experiment involving rolling a basketball off the table through the VGA software.
Data Collection Steps:
- Place the basketball in position as discussed; start data collection following the procedures established.
Graph Presentation and Submission:
- Create presentable graphs via appropriate scaling and labeling.
- Make use of zooming features and create screenshots of graphs for submission.

Postlab Procedures

Answer specific questions on Canvas regarding average position, velocity, and integral calculations based on provided data sets.
Ensure to address all queries focused on the physics principles covered in the lab, for example, comparing slopes and mean values between position-time and velocity-time graphs.
Prepare for discussions on the practical applications of graphs and data analysis in physics.

Summary

Students are to learn data analysis techniques, equipment handling, and proper graph presentation techniques through hands-on experience in collecting and analyzing motion data.
Emphasis is placed on collaboration, ensuring all participants are involved in each process to enhance learning outcomes.