Physics Lab Report

Lab Report-Ohm’s Law- Physics 2426

Describe and perform an experiment to investigate the relationship between the potential difference across a conductor and the resulting current in it is the fundamental relationship for electric circuits. It is written in the form; I = V/R.

Your lab report will be graded using the following rubric. Use paragraph form rather than bullet points.

I. Explanation of Issues:

a. Introduction/Hypothesis 20p

i. State your hypothesis. Formulate what you expect the experiments to show.

ii. Identify the measurable quantities in each of your experiments.

iii. Introduce/define the major concepts, principles and laws used in each experiment. Clearly describe all relevant information for full understanding.

b. Procedure 30p

i. Design the procedure to test your hypothesis.

ii. Describe what you did and how you did it, and what equipment you used.

iii. Write down equations you used.

iv. Draw a sketch of the apparatus

1. A photograph is fine as long as all components of apparatus are clear.

II. Evidence/Data (Results) 20p

a. Representation (EQS)

i. Present the observations and the data collected (in an organized data table).

1. Draw figures, diagrams and/or present the data in data table.

2. Draw a graph: I(y-axis) versus V (x-axis). Clearly label the axes.

b. Calculation (EQS)

i. Using the graph, find the value of Resistance R from the slope show your calculations.

ii. Using the graph, estimate the Current for which V=3v.

iii. Check this result by calculating from Ohm’s Law equation.

III. Influence of Context and Assumptions/Student’s Position (CT)/Assumptions & Application (EQS):

a. Provide a brief comment on the strengths and weaknesses of the experiment.

b. Discuss where and what could influence the accuracy of the data (sources of errors).

IV. Conclusions and Related Outcomes (CT)/Analysis & Communication (EQS) 30p

a. Interpretation (EQS): Was your hypothesis supported? Explain what your data shows and what your interpretation of the results is.

b. Is your conclusion validated by the evidence/data or not? Why or why not?

c. Is there anything surprising about your results?