Experimental simulation in the modern physics laboratory

Abstract

Graphic computer simulations of laboratory experiments in modern physics have been developed for student use prior to each laboratory. The graphic simulations partially replace the traditional pre-lab briefing in an open laboratory setting. Experimental simulation is intended to familiarize the students with the experiment, to allow the students to try a larger number of ’’experimental’’ combinations of variables, to encourage student participation in the design of the experiment, and to build the students confidence in their laboratory ability. Each simulation is designed to be as realistic as posible to provide the student with the same choices of experimental procedure and the same type of data output as would be provided in the laboratory.