HonorsPhysics

LabWriteUpGuidelines

Informal Lab Report

Please type the following: At the top right hand side of the page: Your Name Date Lab is Due Name of Lab I. Data: Collected during the experiment. Should be organized in a table. II. Calculations: Using data collected during lab III. % Error see back of page IV. Graphs V. Questions: Answer all questions given VI. List and explain five sources of error Attach any handouts and raw data collected to back of your informal write-up.

HonorsPhysics

LabWriteUpGuidelines

Formal Lab Report Format

1. Title Page Usually found on the lab handout. If not, be creative. You may include a relevant picture to enhance title page but it should be appropriate, creative, and you must cite where you get it. 2. Purpose Clearly state what you are drying to find or do. What question does this lab present you with? Identify independent and dependent variables. 3. Procedure A BRIEF step-by-step of what you must do to collect your data. Must be in outline/bulleted form. Should be specific enough for someone to re-do the experiment using your procedure! 4. Data & Graphs ALWAYS MAKE A DATA TABLE(s) IN WORD (may not be hand-written). Information, observations and measurements collected during the lab as well as any variables calculated for each trial. Include units with all numbers If an unknown is used, label the data with the unknown letter Graphs: Attached after data section. 5. Calculations must show calculations for any numbers not directly measured in the lab. Must include units with all numbers For multiple calculations, list a sample calculation and explanation. Must show any average calculation Be sure to label clearly what each calculation is Place results in a data table accepted experimental 6. Error Analysis when assigned %Error = x100 accepted 7. Conclusion One of the most important parts a) State background and theory on the topic. Should be a detailed description of all the physics concepts involved in this lab. b) State any formulas used both mathematical and balanced equations c) State your results (use unknown letter if given) Your average result only Accepted value Error analysis d) Explanation of results Why did this occur? Answer the purpose of the lab Support your results with background knowledge. e) Any assigned questions. f) 5 sources of possible error list and explain. THE ENTIRE LAB HANDOUT AND ANY RAW DATA SHOULD BE TURNED IN WITH YOUR REPORT WITH THE COVER PAGE ON TOP.