The Standard Model: Using CERN output graphics to identify elementary particles
as part of its collaboration with the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Summary
Learning Goals
- distinguish the basic categories of particles in the Standard Model
- distinguish the various elementary particles by their properties, and
- identify elementary particles by their tracks in collider detector images
Context for Use
Setting: may be used for independent study either as a part of a full study of introductory physics or as a single lesson. It could also be assigned for use from a introductory physics classroom setting.
Time required: Roughly 2 hours
Special equipment: computer and monitor
Pre-requisite knowledge: understanding of basic classical physics.
Description and Teaching Materials
The full experiment is available at http://homepage.mac.com/dtrapp/ePhysics.f/labVI_9.html which is part of http://www.SequimScience.com
Directions and needed introductory materials are all included in the web page. Batches of recorded data events from CERN are accessed by the links listed below which are embedded in the activity web page. No additional materials need to be accessed except the activity web page. Students either independently or at teacher direction access the web activity page, following the directions there, recording their findings in a journal, and complete the assignment by drafting a formal laboratory report as necessary.
Teaching Notes and Tips
Setup and Introduction are included on the web page http://homepage.mac.com/dtrapp/ePhysics.f/labVI_9.html
The activity is designed for independent study by a student. It was not intended to need any teacher provided directions. However is it is modified for use by a class of students, the instructor should consider what additional directions are pertinent as a result of the modification.
Assessment
It is intended for a student maintain a journal of all experiments performed. If the student desires credit for her or his work, the directions recommend preparing a formal written report based on the criteria at http://homepage.mac.com/dtrapp/PhysicalScience/LabReport.html
References and Resources
http://www.physicsmasterclasses.org/exercises/hands-on-cern/hoc_v21en/JumpToExercises.html
http://www.physicsmasterclasses.org/exercises/manchester/en/challengez.html