af12_6597. Eric Olson
Using Excel Solver and Data Analysis Add-ins in the Introductory College Lab.
Microsoft Excel is a powerful and ubiquitous mathematical tool. It offers data storage, plotting, and analysis capability useful in the introductory college laboratory. Two less-well-known functions available in Excel are the Solver and the Data Analysis Ad-Ins. When activated, these options provide quick, sophisticated parameter fitting and statistical analysis. In both our algebra- and calculus-based two-semester sequence courses at Iowa Lakes, we begin with a series of orientation exercises using Excel, including items using Solver and Data Analysis. Then we proceed to use Excel for most labs throughout both semesters. Data Analysis becomes our main method for obtaining statistics and confidence intervals on regression of data fit to linear models, for example freefall, coefficient of friction, Ohm's law, and time constant versus series resistance for RC combinations. We use the Solver to obtain optimized parameters for a calorimeter experiment involving temperature equilibrium for electric resistance heating.
Photo by Dave Renneke
af12_6597. Eric Olson
Using Excel Solver and Data Analysis Add-ins in the Introductory College Lab.
Microsoft Excel is a powerful and ubiquitous mathematical tool. It offers data storage, plotting, and analysis capability useful in the introductory college laboratory. Two less-well-known functions available in Excel are the Solver and the Data Analysis Ad-Ins. When activated, these options provide quick, sophisticated parameter fitting and statistical analysis. In both our algebra- and calculus-based two-semester sequence courses at Iowa Lakes, we begin with a series of orientation exercises using Excel, including items using Solver and Data Analysis. Then we proceed to use Excel for most labs throughout both semesters. Data Analysis becomes our main method for obtaining statistics and confidence intervals on regression of data fit to linear models, for example freefall, coefficient of friction, Ohm's law, and time constant versus series resistance for RC combinations. We use the Solver to obtain optimized parameters for a calorimeter experiment involving temperature equilibrium for electric resistance heating.
Photo by Dave Renneke