Institut Teknologi Bandung

The event began with a remark by Head of Physics Study Program, Dr. Widayani and the Dean of Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) ITB, Prof. Edy Tri Baskoro, M.Sc., Ph.D., starting from 09.00 a.m. “We should prepare for innovative, adoptive, and fast learning capability.” said the Dean.

The seminar continued with a comprehensive presentation from Drs. Alexander. This active lecturer explained that physics is an experiment-based knowledge. It is inferred from what was done by a scientist from 15-16th century, Galileo Galilei, who proved with his experiment that falling matter have the same acceleration regardless of the mass. That theory rebukes the theory of a legendary philosopher, Aristoteles, who explained that heavier matter will fall quicker than that of lighter matter. “From the experiment, we learn something.” Said the man who admire the scientist Michael Faraday.

From the success of early scientists who learnt by doing experiment, Drs. Alexander is convinced that in order to solve using experiment the key is to do the experiment well and correctly.

Drs. Alexander explained in detail how experiment is performed not only to prove a concept, but also to determine physical quantities and natural constants or determining dominant parameter of a phenomenon. After the aim is clear, the next step is to prepare the necessary equipment and condition. Then, when experimenting, it is necessary to specify the parameter that affect the measured value or quantity before trying a variety of parameter one by one until the relation between each parameter is obtained.

After varying data is obtained, the next step is analyzing and precise deducing. Drs. Alexander exemplified the analyzing step using table and graphic to help deducing the experiment. Once completed, the obtained result is reported immediately.

“Physics experiment does not have to be sophisticated, as long as it is done well and correctly.” Concluded the man who completed his Ph.D in UK. The participants are convinced that physical experiment could be carried out with simple and minimal requirements after Drs. Alexander demonstrated a physics experiment in front of the participants using plastic bottle that contained water. Participants from high school took part in doing this experiment regarding deviation of Torricelli’s Law. Obtained data was then processed on Microsoft Excel until the deviation is proven.

At the end of the session, Drs. Alexander advised the participants to have high curiosity and begin to conduct experiment using available things and begin from simple thing. “If we have difficulties, and we do not understand, we make it (the experiment) ourselves!” he concluded.