Experimental Physics

Experimental physics is the branch of physics concerned with the observation of physical phenomena and the testing of scientific theories through the design, execution, and analysis of experiments. As the empirical counterpart to theoretical physics, it involves the development and use of sophisticated instrumentation to gather data, which is then used to verify or falsify theoretical predictions, determine fundamental physical constants, or discover new effects that may lead to the development of new theories. This hands-on discipline provides the crucial evidence-based foundation for our understanding of the universe, grounding abstract concepts in measurable and reproducible results.

1. Foundations of Experimental Physics
   1. The Role of Experiment in the Scientific Method
      1. Observation and Question Formulation
      2. Hypothesis Testing through Experimentation
      3. Iterative Nature of Scientific Inquiry
   2. Relationship between Experimental and Theoretical Physics
      1. Complementary Roles
      2. Theory-Driven Experiment Design
      3. Experimental Validation of Theories
      4. Feedback Loop between Theory and Experiment
   3. Historical Milestones in Experimental Physics
      1. Early Experiments in Classical Physics
         1. Galileo's Inclined Plane Experiments
         2. Newton's Optics Experiments
         3. Coulomb's Torsion Balance
      2. Key Discoveries in Modern Physics
         1. Discovery of the Electron
         2. Photoelectric Effect
         3. Discovery of Radioactivity
      3. Landmark Experiments
         1. Michelson-Morley Experiment
         2. Cavendish Experiment
         3. Rutherford Scattering Experiment
         4. Millikan Oil Drop Experiment
      4. Evolution of Experimental Techniques
         1. From Mechanical to Electronic Instruments
         2. Development of Computer-Based Data Acquisition
         3. Modern High-Precision Measurements
   4. Reproducibility and Falsifiability
      1. Importance of Reproducibility
      2. Criteria for Falsifiability
      3. Replication Studies
      4. Common Pitfalls in Reproducibility
   5. Laboratory Safety and Best Practices
      1. General Laboratory Conduct
      2. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification
      3. Chemical Safety
         1. Safe Handling and Storage of Chemicals
         2. Use of Personal Protective Equipment
         3. Chemical Spill Response
         4. Material Safety Data Sheets
      4. Electrical Safety
         1. Safe Use of Electrical Equipment
         2. Grounding and Insulation
         3. Emergency Procedures for Electrical Accidents
         4. High Voltage Safety Protocols
      5. Radiation Safety
         1. Types of Radiation Hazards
         2. Shielding and Monitoring
         3. Regulatory Compliance
         4. Dosimetry and Exposure Limits
      6. Handling of Cryogenics and High-Pressure Systems
         1. Safe Use of Cryogenic Liquids
         2. Pressure Vessel Safety
         3. Emergency Procedures for Cryogenic and Pressure Hazards
         4. Asphyxiation Hazards