Fundamental Constants - Modern Physics Laboratory

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This project leads to a series of laboratory modules that, as a whole, compose a laboratory for physics majors, but individually are appropriate for courses in chemistry and astronomy. Each module is being built upon an experiment that determines a fundamental constant or important physical constant. The experiments are clearly distinct from the traditional chemistry or astronomy experiments both in the nature of the information sought and, in many cases, by the techniques and processes used. They do, however, serve as an integral part of these courses. In each case, the goal is to emphasize the role that physics plays in the discipline it supports while simultaneously identifying it as a distinct discipline. The educational goals of the experiment are to (1) have students appreciate the relevance of the supporting physics experiment since it is carried out within the related nonphysics course; (2) maximize the number of students that are exposed to landmark physics experiments; and (3) increase the student's appreciation of the distinctive nature of physics as a discipline. The experiments are designed to (1) be carried out with only computer-aided instruction; (2) use computer interfaces to allow for high- precision work and to support calculations; and (3) measure fundamental constants that have a direct impact on the associated course.