The first level physics laboratory course is an exercise to develop basic experimental skills in a student. In the second level laboratory course the University wishes to cultivate confidence in students in handling sophisticated instruments, apart from generating ability to overcome difficulties when an experimental arrangement does not work. Moreover, interpreting and analysing data should sharpen their scientific skills. The experiments in this course can be broadly divided into three groups: Electrical circuits and electronics, optics, thermodynamics and properties of materials. A deliberate effort has been made while deviating in the choice of equipment, particularly for electrical circuits.
The university hopes that this course will prepare students to tackle situations without external help.
Experiments:
1. A study of network theorems
2. Calibration of a thermistor and determination of its energy gap
3. Construction and characterisation of power supplies and filters
4. Study of OPAMP as summing and inverting amplifier
5. Study of OPAMP as differentiator and integrator
6. Detection and measurement of charge using an OPAMP
7. Study of lens properties and optical instruments
8. Spectral analysis using a prism spectrometer
9. Interference of light: Young's experiment
10. Spectral analysis using a grating spectrometer
11. Production, detection and reflection of polarised light
12. Study of interference of polarised light
13. Measurement of cp/cv by an acoustic method
14. Measurement and interpretation of cooling curves: Phase change.
Assessment is by continuous evaluation during laboratory work (70%) and a final examination (30%).
Programmes for which this course is required or in which it can be included:
Bachelor of Science.
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