Physics Laboratory Format:

 

This is the format that I would like you to use when you turn in a completed lab.  Sometimes only one report will be turned in for each group, but lab quizzes will follow each lab to make sure everyone was participating equally. Formal lab reports must be typed, or neatly written with ink on a plain paper.

 

Proper Heading: As above, include your name, class, period, and the date. Also, each section should have a heading as listed below.  This is due before you start the lab.

Purpose: This is a short explanation of what you will be investigating.  The idea is for you to understand the result you will be working toward, not the experimental procedure you'll use to get there.  This is due before you start the lab.

Data:  This includes labeled spaces for all data that you'll need to record, as well as any actual charts or tables prescribed by the lab.  Each data table should include 1) Title, 2) Row and Column Labels, 3) Units, and 4) proper space for the numbers to be recorded.  This is due before you start the lab.  Also included in this section are any graphs you may be required to do.  Put any graphs after your data tables but before the sections on calculations.  Each graph should include 1) Title, 2) Axis Labels, 3) Units, and 4) proper space for the data to be graphed (1/2 page is about right).  Line graphs only - use either "best fit" line or a smooth curve which best accommodates the data.

Calculations:  This section includes all formulas used and all calculations performed.  Each Calculation should include 1) Title, 2) Formula Used, 3) Units, and 4) one sample calculation taken directly from the data chart.  Put a box around all important results.

Questions: Answer any questions in the lab in complete sentences in this section, after all calculations have been performed.

Conclusions: This is a paragraph in which you look at your results and evaluate what you have found as a result of your work.  You should 1) State your results, 2) compare your results with your theoretical expectations, and 3) perform any necessary error analysis.  Make this meaningful.  If your results involved error, briefly explain what flaws in the lab conditions or procedures would have affected collection of proper data (error analysis).  I don't want a meaningless statement of all cosmically possible sources of error, just those that would have a significant effect.  Never confuse measurement inaccuracy with error!

 

Please keep your lab reports neat and orderly.  Anything I can't figure out due to illegibility will count against you.  Using this format should make it easier for you to see what you have done and easier for me to grade.

Lab Report Format