Physicist how-to

How to Turn a Physics Question into an Experiment

Good experiments answer one question.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good experiments answer one question. In short: state; predict; pick, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. State the question.

  2. Predict the result.

  3. Pick variables.

  4. Design the setup.

  5. Plan analysis.

  6. Run and compare.

Safety reminders for physicists

  • Follow laser safety
  • Follow radiation safety
  • Follow high-voltage rules
  • Handle cryogens safely

Hypothesis · Peer review · Grant · Protocol · Replication · Quantum mechanics: see the full physicist glossary.

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