Course identity
PHYS 201L and PHYS 231L share this Physics Lab 1 resource page. If Canvas lists either code, this is the correct lab hub.
Start with Canvas and the current syllabus.
Use Canvas for official lab meeting details, assigned experiment numbers, due dates, submission instructions, grades, and announcements. Use this page as the reusable PHYS 201L / PHYS 231L lab hub.
Course Overview
What this lab page is for.
Instructional focus
Physics Lab 1 emphasizes mechanics-centered measurements, graphing, uncertainty, and clear comparison between physical models and collected data.
Instructor contact
For section-specific questions, use Canvas messages or email ahvolk@liberty.edu.
Before you come to lab
- Check Canvas for the assigned experiment, due date, and any instructor notes for your section.
- Read the relevant lab manual pages before class and identify the objective, apparatus, and major procedure steps.
- Write down expected quantities, units, formulas, and graph relationships before collecting data.
- Bring the required notebook, data sheet, calculator, and any files or printouts requested in Canvas.
- Ask before changing a setup, using unfamiliar equipment, or continuing when a measurement seems unsafe.
Lab Manual & Resources
Use these materials during preparation and lab day.
The current manual, required files, and section-specific handouts live in Canvas. This page keeps the reusable workflow in one place.
Assigned experiment
Read the Canvas-posted manual before lab and bring the needed pages, notes, or data sheet.
Open CanvasTables and graphs
Record raw measurements with units and uncertainty notes. Preserve enough detail that the analysis can be checked later.
Equipment setup
Follow the manual and instructor directions exactly before releasing carts, hanging masses, adjusting sensors, or changing any setup.
Reports & Data Analysis
Make your lab work traceable.
Show the measurement trail
Include raw data, units, sample calculations, and graph labels so another reader can follow how each result was produced.
Connect results to the model
Compare slopes, fitted values, or calculated quantities with the expected physical relationship. Explain differences with evidence from the experiment.
Use uncertainty language
State major sources of uncertainty, distinguish random variation from systematic effects, and avoid unsupported claims about accuracy.
Getting help
For due dates, submissions, and section-specific instructions, use Canvas first. For questions about experiment preparation, analysis, or reports, contact Prof. Volk through Canvas or at ahvolk@liberty.edu.