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PHYSICS LABS
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The TOPS experiments are
designed to integrate into a teacher's current high school curriculum
and conform to the Science Framework for California Public Schools. The
experiments employ modern technology including computer driven
instruments and commercially available data analysis software. Click the titles for more information on each
lab.
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Mechanics
Study of the introductory principles
of Dynamics. Properties of motion carts on tracks are measured
using motion sensors linked to iBooks. Topics addressed include:
Acceleration on an incline; the relationship between force, impulse, and
momentum; and momentum, energy, and collisions. Uses iBooks with
software and connectors, 2.2 M track systems, motion detectors,
force sensors, and accelerometers.
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Optics
Study of basic geometric optics,
refraction, and polarization. Uses Pasco Optics Systems and Ray Optics
kits.
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Wave Motion
Study of the relationship between wave frequency, velocity and
wavelength. Refraction, dispersion, diffraction, and interference
are also investigated. Uses ripple tank systems and
variable frequency strobe lights.
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Circuits
Study of
the relationship between current and voltage in resistors and capacitors
combined in series and parallel. The results are used to verify
Kirchoff's rules. Uses iBooks with software and connectors,
powered breadboard with generator, electronic components and jumper
wires sets, multimeters, and capacitor and transistor probes.
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Electrostatics
Investigation of the relationship between plate separation and
capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor. The effect dielectrics
of is also observed. Uses
variable DC power supplies, multimeters,
variable capacitors, electrometers, and capacitor and transistor probes.
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Thermodynamics (Physics and Chemistry)
Study pressure-volume work determination, gas laws, and absolute zero. Uses Apple MacBooks with instrument interfaces, heat engines, gas pressure sensors, aluminum air chambers, and rotary motion sensors. Please note that the activities for this lab are still being beta tested. This lab is available to TOPS physics and chemistry teachers that have been trained on this lab. The following activities are DRAFTS and the final versions will be posted in late 2010.
Click on the following links to view the .pdf of each lab activity: Pressure-Volume Work Determination (Conceptual)
Pressure-Volume Work Determination
Gas Laws
Absolute Zero
Absolute Zero (Graph Page)
Thermodynamics Lab Apparatus Diagram
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