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Each experiment can be broken down into five one-week components. The first week involves pre-lab activities, during the second and third week the experiment is performed and the data are turned in, during the fourth week the data are analyzed and an oral presentation is given, and then in the fifth week the written report is prepared and turned in. The fifth week overlaps with the pre-lab week for the next experiment. This page covers the activities that should occur during the pre-lab week. All pre-lab activities are the responsibility of the group leader for that experiment. The group leader is responsible for contacting all members of the group, scheduling meetings at times that are convenient for all members, assigning tasks to group members, and coordinating all activities in the group. If there are problems, the affected parties should document the issues (i.e. keep copies of e-mails, etc.) and then see Dr. Neelamegham to get them resolved. Early in the week the group leader should obtain MSDS's for each chemical to be used in the experiment. Here's a link to help you get started finding MSDS's. The group leader should also read through the description of the experiment, procedure, etc. The group leader may also wish to contact the teaching assistant and make an appointment to view the equipment. Any questions about operation of the equipment, etc. should be raised at this time. The group leader should then call a meeting of the group. At this meeting the group leader should make sure everyone is thoroughly familiar with the procedure for the experiment. The group should formulate a list of health and safety concerns for that experiment. The group should also examine what data will be collected, and how that data will be used in the analysis. On Monday of the pre-lab week the group leader will take the pre-lab quiz for that experiment. This quiz may include any information from the MSDSs, equipment operation, theory, safety issues and precautions, data collection, and data analysis. The group will not be permitted to perform the experiment until the pre-lab quiz has been taken. |
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