Ph 2305/2306
Foundations of Physics
Laboratory
Fall 1998

Coordinator:
Professor Mark Pitt
Robeson 309
231-3015
pitt@vt.edu

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"If it bites and scratches, it's biology

if it smells and pops, it's chemistry

if it doesn't work, it's physics"

NOTICE Be sure to check the announcements page regularly. The most recent announcement was posted on 10/21/98.

At the beginning of the semester you should read carefully this page and the pages regarding lab policies and grading. For information about instructors and schedules, be sure to check the specific course's lab page: 2305 or 2306.

Please check announcements regularly for schedule changes and other news. Notices will also be posted on the bulletin board near room 316 (2305) or room 312 (2306).

The Foundations of Physics sequence, Physics 2305, 2306 and 3304, includes laboratory work which is designed to apply the theoretical concepts presented in the lecture to actual situations. No less important is the training it provides you to observe, record, and analyze physical events (the experiment) in a quantitative fashion and in accordance with the scientific method. In spite of the conventional wisdom expressed above, physics does work when an experiment is done carefully and the limitations of the measuring equipment and process are understood.

There is no substitute for your attendance and completion of the experimental sessions comprising this course. It is also important that you prepare ahead of time so that the brief time in class each week is used most effectively. The grading policy is structured accordingly. It is your responsibility to read and understand it.

Most people find physics to be a difficult subject, and this lab is a rare opportunity to experience it in a small classroom setting. In no other context are you likely to receive so much individual attention. Please take advantage of it, and don't hesitate to ask your instructor for explanations and clarification.

HONOR CODE

You are encouraged to discuss your assignments with your instructors, lab partners, and other classmates. However, any written assignments must be expressed in your own words and reflect your own format details. You may not copy (even with some modification) problem solutions or lab reports. Even copying the method of a lab report analysis from a partner or previous student is not allowed. If there is reasonable evidence of copying, it will be construed as an act of plagiarism and a violation of the honor code. In such cases, normal college rules regarding academic dishonesty will be followed.

[HOME PAGE | GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS | PREPARING LAB REPORTS]

[POLICIES | GRADING | 2305 INFO | 2306 INFO | FEEDBACK ]

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