An Introduction to Physics Lab Reports

by Dalton Scott

Table of Contents

Cover Page

Abstract

Introduction

Objective

Procedure

Data

Calculations

Conclusion

Before the Experiment

Cover Page

  • Title
  • Names of the Scientists
  • Date of Research
  • An institutions or groups you are associated with

Abstract

  • Summary of the experiment and results
  • Like the blurb of a novel
  • Convinces readers to read on
  • Best written after the experiment

Introduction

  • Briefly summarize any required physics concepts
    
  • Describe your motivation for doing the experiment
  • State any assumptions made in order to do the experiment

Objective

  • Write a few sentences on the purpose of your experiment
  • State your hypothesis

After the Experiment

Procedure

  • State every step of your experiment
  • NOTE: IF YOU SKIP THIS SECTION, YOUR ENTIRE REPORT IS WORTHLESS
  • Detail any equipment used in the experiment
  • Suggest possible safety precautions

Data

  • Organize your data in a chart, table, or both
  • Explain any uncertainties in your data (There are uncertainties in your data)
  • Discuss any anomalies and why you chose to discard them

Calculations

  • List all of the equations used in your report
  • If you have derived any special calculations, include a single worked example

Conclusion

  • Accept or reject your hypothesis based on your data
  • If necessary, offer a new hypothesis
  • Suggest improvements to the experiment
  • Detail any implications your results have on the world (of physics)

An Introduction to Physics Lab Reports

By Dalton Scott

An Introduction to Physics Lab Reports

A brief introduction to the main features of a physics lab report

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