Experimental Methods for Science and Engineering Students
An Introduction to the Analysis and Presentation of Data

An overview of experimental methods providing practical advice to students seeking guidance with their experimental work.

Les Kirkup (Author)

9781108418461, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 5 September 2019

236 pages, 54 b/w illus. 95 tables
25.3 x 19.3 x 1.4 cm, 0.67 kg

'… a very valuable book for physical science and engineering undergraduates, introducing them to the experimental processes of data gathering and analysis, then turning what was found into formal oral or written presentations … a great resource for academics teaching … significant value to science teachers …' Australian Physics

Responding to the developments of the past twenty years, Les Kirkup has thoroughly updated his popular book on experimental methods, while retaining the extensive coverage and practical advice from the first edition. Many topics from that edition remain, including keeping a record of work, how to deal with measurement uncertainties, understanding the statistical basis of data analysis and reporting the results of experiments. However, with new technologies influencing how experiments are devised, carried out, analyzed, presented and reported, this new edition reflects the digital changes which have taken place and the increased emphasis on the importance of communication skills in reporting results. Bringing together key elements of experimental methods into one coherent book, it is perfect for students seeking guidance with their experimental work, including how to acquire, analyse and present data. Exercises, worked examples and end-of-chapter problems are provided throughout the book to reinforce fundamental principles.

Preface to the second edition
Preface to the first edition
1. Introduction to experimentation
2. Characteristics of experimental data
3. Graphical presentation of data
4. Dealing with uncertainties
5. Statistical approach to variability in measurements
6. Fitting a line to x-y data using the method of least squares
7. Report writing and presentations
8. Using Excel to present and analyse data
9. Computer-aided data capture
Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Solutions to exercises and problems
Further reading
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Instruments & instrumentation engineering [TBM], Technology, engineering, agriculture [T], Earth sciences, geography, environment, planning [R], Scientific equipment, experiments & techniques [PDN], Science: general issues [PD], Mathematics & science [P]