AS 91521 · 4 credits · Internal
Practical Physics
Carry out a practical investigation to test a physics theory relating two variables in a non-linear relationship
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You'll design and run a hands-on physics experiment to test whether a real theory correctly predicts how two variables connect in a non-linear (curved) relationship. You'll collect data by changing one variable over a good range, figure out the uncertainties in your measurements, plot your results on a graph, and explain what your findings say about the physics theory you were testing.
What to do, grades and common mistakes
- ·Collect data by deliberately changing the independent variable across a reasonable range with enough data points to see the full relationship
- ·Identify and calculate the uncertainties in your raw measurements (what could be off)
- ·Draw a graph and use it to determine the equation or specific value that describes the relationship between your two variables
- ·Control or describe other factors that could affect your results so they don't mess up your conclusion
- ·Write a conclusion that states what equation you found and compares it directly to what the physics theory predicted
You collect appropriate data, calculate some uncertainties, create a graph that lets you find the relationship, and write a conclusion stating your equation and how it compares to theory.