Resources by School Physics
Displaying 31 - 40 of 41
Specific heat capacity of water
The aim of this investigation is to measure the specific heat capacity of water, building on GCSE work. The focus can be on sources of error and you can also look at finding the SHC of other liquids, or seeing if altering the mass affects the results.
Spectrum of a gas
The aim of this investigation is to measure the wavelengths in a spectrum of gas e.g. sodium or cadmium. It is expected that the students will calculate the wavelengths of a number of lines in the first order spectrum.
Speed of sound: resonance tube
A different investigation to calculate the speed of sound in air using an air column in a tube. Very easy to set up and take measurements, which is ideal for a class practical.
Stress investigation: polarised light
This investigation looks at seeing the stress concentrations in a variety of objects using polarised light. It would work well when looking at material properties and uses basic equipment.
Surface tension: capillary rise
The aim of this investigation is observing the capillary rise of water in capillary tubes and extending this to determine the surface tension of water. This will test students measuring skills and get them to discuss errors in measurements too.
Temperature coefficient of resistance
Using a sample of iron wire you measure the temperature coefficient of resistance. By plotting a graph of temperature against resistance you will then be able to determine the temperature coefficient. This can be using a Wheatstone Bridge, or a digital ohm meter if preferred.
The half-life of water
In this investigation, using a tall tube filled with water, you let the water out the bottom of the tube, into a beaker/sink. You will record the level of the water at set intervals (every 5 or 10 seconds for example). You will then repeat this a couple of times and plot your average water level against time. You...
Thermocouple
This experiment allows you to investigate the boiling point of brine and the melting point of lead using a potentiometer arrangement. An alternative approach using digital voltmeters is also included at the bottom of the sheet.
Viscosity: Stoke's law
This investigation can be linked to density which is taught at GCSE and show how this is built on. The aim is to determine the coefficient of viscosity of a viscous liquid such as glycerol, but this could be expanded to different liquids.
Wheatstone bridge
The aim of this investigation is to find the value of a number of resistors using a Wheatstone bridge. Although this is an historical piece of equipment that has been superseded by modern methods it provides an excellent way to understand potential difference in circuits.
