Figure 6 - Double slit diffraction experiment completed in Intermediate physics lab
WPI’s project centered learning also includes a ton of unique classes for every major. Some of the courses I took for content knowledge were:
Intro to Mechanics
Intermediate Mechanics
Introduction to Electricity and Magnetism
Electromagnetics
Photonics
Intermediate Physics Laboratory
Atmospheric Space Environments
Pictured to the left is a project I completed in intermediate Physics lab, proving the double slit diffraction theory I had learned in intro to E&M!
Most of these courses included a lab session for project based learning. These labs gave great insight into experimental physics and hands-on learning. This was especially highlighted in the Intermediate Physics Laboratory where I was tasked with performing two experiments to prove some of the concepts I learned about in class. One of these experiments included a somewhat expensive device to prove light spreads out in a set way when sent through a diffraction grating. This involved using a double slit apparatus that was completely enclosed to let in the least amount of light possible. It then fired singular photons through a diffraction grating and counted the photon collisions at the other end. Below is a table of my results and an image of how diffraction works. This experiment proved what I had learned conceptually in class. This experimental physics approach gave me yet another view on the subject area I plan to teach in.