PASCO OS-8500 INTRODUCTORY OPTICS SYSTEM - Manual (Page 5)

012-02744K Introductory Optics System
®
iii
The PASCO scientific Introductory Optics System is
designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to
laboratory optics. Of course, textbooks and lab books
vary in the areas covered and the degree of complex-
ity taught. To ensure that all essential concepts are
covered, the experiments in this guide are based on
material presented in several of the most comprehen-
sive physics textbooks, including Modern Physics
(Holt, Rinehart, and Winston) and PSSC Physics
(Haber-Schaim, Dodge, and Walter). However, even
if you do not use one of these textbooks, you should
have little problem finding a collection of experiments
in this manual that suits your needs.
The experiments are presented in three groups: Basic
Experiments, Advanced Experiments, and Optical
Instruments. All the experiments are designed as
worksheets, to be copied from the manual for student
use.
➤NOTE: Each experiment includes a series of
questions with blank spaces for students to write
their answers. We encourage students not to
limit themselves to the space provided, but
rather to use as much additional paper as needed
to discuss, argue, prove points, etc.
The Basic Experiments provide all the essentials for a
solid introduction to optics.These experiments are
designed to give clear presentations of the basic
phenomena. The fill-in-the-blank format (used in all
the experiments in this manual) provides a structured
format and simple evaluation of student progress.
Preface to the Teacher
The Advanced Experiments provide more in-depth
investigations into some of the areas that were intro-
duced in the Basic Experiments. These experiments
are generally longer and more demanding. They
should provide ample material for advanced classes
and for independent study.
The Optical Instruments section provides an oppor-
tunity for students to apply some of the optics theory
they have learned. Students can build and investigate
a Projector, a Magnifier, a Microscope, and a Tele-
scope. The optical bench and magnetic mounts make
the setup easy.
In addition to the equipment provided in the PASCO
Optics System, a few common items are needed for
some experiments.
Additional Items Needed:
Items Purpose Expts
Pencil, Straightedge, Ray 1, 3, 5,
Protractor, White Paper Tracing 11, 13
Black Construction Circular 17
Paper, Pin Aperture
All experiments, except where otherwise stated, are
best performed in a semi-darkened room. For optimal
conditions, allow just enough light to enable comfort-
able reading of the lab book.