Description

• COptics – Focometry / Instruments : Determination of the focal length of thin lenses by two methods (Bessel and Silbermann). Comparison of protocols. Model of microscope.
• Optics – Interferences / Diffraction : Measurement of small objects dimensions using diffraction. Recording of a diffraction patern using CCD camera.
• Calorimetry – Ice fusion : Application of the Regnault correction method in order to find the enthalpy of fusion of ice. Introduction to corrections.
• Ultrasounds – Interferences / Piezo : Measure of the speed of sound in air. Diffraction and interfference of sound waves.
• Torsion pendulum : Comparison of the Young modulus of different materials. Calibration and use of a setup to measure the Young modulus of different materials. Comparison of different protocols.
• Friction in pipes : Study of the laminar and turbulent flows of water in a tube.
• Bernouilli : Introduction to the different types of pressures (total, dynamic and static). Measurement of pressures using Pitot and U-tubes.
• Gas : heat capacityMeasurement of the gas heat capacities of air. Involves use of computer assisted measurement.
• Stirling engine : Experimental evidence of the thermodynamic principles applied to thermal engines. Measurement of work, heat exchanges and efficiency of the engine.
• Coax cable : Study of impredance matching on the reflection of electromagnetical waves in a coaxial cable. Measurement if the index of a coaxial cable.
• Wave tank : Measurement of velocities of small amplitude waves. Highlight of wave related phenomenons (dispersion, diffaction, interference, reflection,…).
• Q factor : Measurement of the quality factor of a quartz crystal using two different methods (free oscillations and forced oscillations). Study of the beats on the start of a forced oscillator. Comparison of protocols.

Compétences visées

Mastering of the laboratiry tools required for physical analysis. Experimental experience during which the students are able to develop their critical thinking and methodology of science on a broad range of topics related to physics.

Modalités d'organisation et de suivi

Groups of ca. 20 students perform 12 experiments of a duration of ca. 3 hours under the supervision of 2 teachers

Bibliographie

1. Bulletin de l’Union des Physiciens