Labs - Durham University

Undergraduate laboratory study

Experimental physics is the bedrock from which all our understanding of the universe must come. Without the ability to test nature, even our grandest ideas are just speculation. Even if you plan to avoid experimental work in your career, you will need to understand the provenance of the data with which to test your theories.

Report writing guidelines

Male and female student checking notes by fume cupboard. One holds a test tube in his hands.

How do we set about learning? The answer is stage by stage, level by level.

Levels

Level 1

You prepare for full-scale experiments. Level 1 Labs see you build the skills required to be a competent experimental physicist.
Level 2

Doing a complete investigation using what you learnt in Level 1. You will carry out experiments over multiple sessions and have more freedom.
Level 3

Having chosen an experimental project in a particular area, you work out how to do it! You lead your own investigation.

Level 1

You prepare for full-scale experiments. Level 1 Labs see you build the skills required to be a competent experimental physicist.

Two students working with circuits and an oscilloscope

Level 2

Doing a complete investigation using what you learnt in Level 1. You will carry out experiments over multiple sessions and have more freedom.

Bridge project student making rocket outside

Level 3

Having chosen an experimental project in a particular area, you work out how to do it! You lead your own investigation.

Browse Physics modules [intranet access required]

Important information

Skills

Here you can find references and help for the various skills you will need in your labs module.
ISEs

Interactive screen experiments ('ISEs') are an innovative technique which allows students to carry out experiments on computers outside of the lab.
Skills

It is vital that you follow all safety instructions and procedures.