Lab Reports/describe the objectives and concepts of the lab. Define any key words,
show any equation you use in the lab, and describe any theory or law that is used.
Introduction: In this section you describe the objectives and concepts of the lab. Define any key words, show any equation you use in the lab, and describe any theory
or law that is used. Do no describe the procedures of the experiment or copy the objectives from the handout. The introduction should be no shorter than 1/2 page in
length.
Procedure: You will have this section only if modification or changes are made in the experiment. If this is the case, you will need to describe how the experiment was
modified.
Data: The measurements and observations you make must be recorded in neatly prepared data tables. You can use the examples that are provided for you in the experiment.
Results and sample calculations: Raw data collected is to be manipulated in this section. This normally involves calculating quantities using relevant equations. When
calculating a quantity, the calculation must be shown step by step. This is to indicate to me that you are performing the correct procedure. Further calculation of the
same quantity need not be shown unless it requires the use of a different equation. For example, for the first experiment, you should also calculate the resultant
vector and show it does or does not match the value obtained from experiment.
You may need to construct neat tables top place your calculated quantities. Use a spreadsheet. Often the results of an experiment must be presented graphically. Graphs
are to be plotted on the computer and include gridlines. When plotting a graph, chose a scale that is a multiple of 1, 2, 5, or 10. The computer usually does this for
you.
The graph must have a title indicating the quantities represented, the X and Y axis properly labeled with the quantity and units, and the best straight line or curve
drawn through the data points. The curve or line must take up most of the space allotted for the graph. The graph must be large enough to extract data from it. If you
have a straight line, include the equation and the correlation coefficient (r-squared).
Frequently, you will need to do something with data in order to put it into useful form. This may include answering questions, doing arithmetic or algebra, completing
tables, or making graphs. A sample calculation must be included in the lab report, even if you use a calculator or spreadsheet. In addition, you must give all measured
and calculated values some for of physical units. These values must be labeled appropriately.
Fc = ____________ = __________
