GOALS
Physics
- Use the LRC circuit to develop an understanding of the second-order
differential equation describing damped, simple harmonic oscillators.
- Review the properties of resistance (R), capacitance (C) and inductance
(L) and the elementary series circuit.
- Try to understand what Q, the "quality factor" means in an oscillating
system.
Technique
- Continue to use the oscilloscope and interpret time dependent voltages:
measure oscillation period (time) and interpret the exponential function (time
constant).
- Use a signal generator and take into account its internal resistance.
- Practice taking data in tabular form.
Errors
- Learn to estimate how well you can measure time and voltage when using the
oscilloscope.
- Verify theory predictions (which have errors) by comparing to values
obtained by measurement.
Questions (Work out in your lab book before coming to class)
Show that you can write 
=
for 0 =
Show that the error in approximating 
0
is < 1% if Q > 4.
References
- Halliday and Resnick, 34-1, 2, 3.
- Bueche, 27.8.