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In this activity, students use authentic detector data to apply simple 1D kinematics (v=d/t), interpret graphical data, and evaluate measurement uncertainties.

The purpose of this activity is to come to a consensus for the “best” value for the mass of the Z Boson.

This activity provides techniques for guiding students doing an independent research project.

Students use spreadsheet coding to determine the Z Mass for a large data set.

Students collect data from muons which decay in the MINERvA detector in the Fermilab NuMi beamline to understand particle decay and determine the muon lifetime.

Students measure the effects of electric and magnetic fields on particles. 

Students learn how physicists measure muon lifetime.

Students roll dice, record the resulting individual values as well as the sum of the values, create histograms of the data and develop insight into the concept of “degrees of freedom." 

Students create and interpret a histogram of penny masses.

Students have an opportunity to learn how to analyze data to calibrate the CMS detector and participate in discovery science (as particle physicists do).