Preparing For Lab

 

Experimental labs are a valuable way to learn difficult concepts. They allow you to visualize these concepts and they also give you the time to explore them more fully. In order to use a lab experiment to its greatest potential, you must come prepared. It is impossible to fully explore a concept if you are bogged down in simply trying to remember the procedure or you haven't completed the preparatory calculations.

Before each lab, you should always complete the following:

1) Read and re-write the complete laboratory procedure into your lab notebook. The procedure in this manual includes pictures of vital steps and glassware. Make sure you not only copy the procedure but that you also think about what you are being asked to do. You may also want to diagram out some of the pictures into your notebook as well.

2) Complete the pre-laboratory exercises on LON-CAPA. The LON-CAPA exercises are designed to help you practice the calculations that you will need to write your lab reports. They also may contain preparatory calculations that you may need for completion of the lab experiment itself. Be sure to copy any preparatory calculations into your lab notebook when instructed to do so.

3) Remember to dress appropriately. You will be told repeatedly about the dress code for lab. This includes closed-toe shoes, long pants (or skirt) that completely cover the entire leg (no carpri pants or shorts), shirts that completely cover the torso, and acceptable goggles. The dress code is for your protection and we take that very seriously.

Preparing for lab is not just important it is mandatory. Any one showing up unprepared will not be allowed to participate in the lab.