Physics Facilities

The physics laboratories include two labs dedicated to experimental optics, as well as labs where research is conducted on modern physics and theoretical physics projects.

Optics Lab

In the optics laboratory, students conduct experiments on topics including:

• Geometrical optics (lenses and mirrors)
• Polarization
• Interference
• Interferometry
• Diffraction
• Spectroscopy
• Fiber optics
• Lasers
• Laser Lab

The laser laboratory includes equipment that can be found in professional industrial and research laboratories. In this lab, students have access to automated data acquisition, lock-in amplifiers, higher-power lasers, spectrum analyzers and other equipment and components. Experiments are designed to address current issues in optical science, and students learn how to conduct experiments, use research equipment, collect and analyze data, and present results.

Research Lab

The research lab is dedicated to work on modern and theoretical physics projects. For example:

• The classic experiments (e.g. Frank Hertz, Rydberg)
• Gamma-Spectroscopy with a computer controlled multi-channel analyzer
• Electron and nuclear spin resonance
• Using a Beta spectrometer to study Beta decay (and demonstrate the existence of positrons)
• Using Hall Effect measurements to determine the Band Gap in a semiconductor

Senior-level students do more advanced experiments such as studying superconductivity using a SQUID. Associated with the lab is a student machine shop (with a Sawzall, drill press, metal lathe and more), a photographic darkroom and a well-equipped electronics lab that students can use for both school and personal projects.

See photos of our facilities: