Introduction to Low-Level Measurement Techniques Using a Short Segment of Conducting Wire

UNCP Author/Contributor (non-UNCP co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Dr. William Brandon, Associate Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP )
Web Site: http://www.uncp.edu/academics/library

Abstract: In order to gain exposure to low-level measurement techniques, UNCP physics students used a short segment (length ~ 10 cm, resistance ~ 33 mW) of AWG 30 copper wire to integrate information using an exhaustive list of activities. I will present a brief summary of six of those activities, including• Multimeter fundamentals• DIY four point sense with inexpensive bench-top instruments• Four point resistance measurement with HP 3468B multimeter• Calculation of resistance (rl/a) with wire diameter measured using diffraction pattern• AC voltage characterization using SR 830 lock-in amplifier (including refutation of a previous AJP article)• Characterization of 60 Hz and 120 Hz notch filters of the SR 830 lock-in amplifierThe first four are appropriate for introductory labs, whereas the last two qualify as intermediate to advanced level labs.

Additional Information

Publication
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Language: English
Date: 2015
Keywords
Physics, Low-Level Measurement Techniques, Short Segment Copper Wire, Introductory Laboratory Activities, Intermediate Laboratory Activities, Advanced Laboratory Activities, Laboratory Activities

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