"Nature's Scale" activity

Detector Plots


Today - working as apprentice physicist at Collider Detector at Fermilab (CDF)

One of two collider detectors on Tevatron - world's most powerful particle accelerator

Joining the data analysis team:


Fermilab Memo

TO: Data Analysis Team Apprentice Physicists DATE:
FROM: Robert Harris, Data Analysis Team Leader RE: CTC and Lego plots

Your goals for today:

  • Match corresponding CTC and Lego plots to one another. You will need to obtain these plots from your local Project Manager. All of the plots go together, but your project manager has divided them into three sets to help make your job simpler. The three sets go from easy to hard, so use the easy ones to really think about what you're doing so that you're ready for the hard ones. Info on and graphical display of relationship between plots. After you have paired the plots, demonstrate that your matches are correct by matching Lego plot towers with their CTC plot tracks.
  • Classify the plots by sorting them into groups based on similarities. Ideas on how to do this from CDF event page.
  • After you have sorted the first three sets of plots, return to your Project Manager for new plots and classify them based on your existing groups. Do these new plots make you feel more confident, or less confident in your classification scheme? If less, see if you can come up with a better scheme.
  • When you feel confident in your classification scheme, put it on paper. For each group, write down one or two characteristics of a plot that let you know that the plot belongs to that group.
  • When you have your scheme on paper, notify your Project Manager, who will let you know how to share your results. Be prepared to consult and compare classification schemes with other groups. How are your schemes similar? How are they different? Is one more effective than the other? Is one easier to use than the other? What else do you notice about the two schemes?

Be certain that you understand exactly what will be required of you before you begin this project. If you have any questions, contact your local Project Manager. Thanks for your work. We're counting on you!

Robert Harris

Last Updated: October 19, 1999