Esperimentazioni di Fisica I

Prof. L. Martinelli

55 lectures, 16 labs (3-4h each)

Physics Laboratory I

Introductory course to the basic physics experiments, including measurement evaluation, display of results and error analysis.

Prerequisites: Fundamentals of Mathematics and Physics.

Assessment: practical (3h) + oral (1h) examination

Measurements of length,mass,time,temperature.

Elements of probability and statistics: Definition and properties of the probability. Random variables, distribution functions, moments.

Binomial,Poisson, Gauss and chi-squared distribution functions. Central limit theorem. Introduction to the sample theory; sample mean and variance; t- and F-variables. Data analysis: Error as uncertainty in a result. Systematic and random errors. Preci sion and accuracy of the measurements.

Graphical representations of the measurements. Linear and non linear least-squares fitting. Goodness of fit: chi-squared test. Data manipulation: derivation and area integration, interpolation. Geometrical Optics: reflection and refraction. Mirrors a nd lenses.

a) to use instruments (metre rule, vernier calliper, micrometer screw

gauge, balance, timer, computer);

b) to observe a physical phenomenon (behaviour of the period of a pendulum;

rolling of a sphere down an inclined plane; distribution of a statistical sample);

c) to measure a physical quantity (gravity, moment of inertia and friction of a rotating flywheel; modulus of rigidity of a steel wire; measurement of the thermal conductivity of a good conductor; refraction index of water; focal length of converging and diverging lenses);

d) to confirm a theoretical model (collisions on air table; harmonic oscillations: simple and damped oscillator, coupled oscillators, forced oscillations).

Recommended books:

J.R. Taylor, An Introduction to Error Analysis, The study of Uncertainties in Physical Measurements.

L. Martinelli, Notes to the course.