It may not be quite so logically clear as pure mathematics, but it stands out as a model of clarity among all the theories of deductive science. Basic physical laws are first introduced by certain conceptually simple and easily visualized demonstrations and situations. The laws themselves are then abstracted and reformulated in simplified quantitative form. Finally, the important features of the laws and their relation with other laws are brought out and reinforced in the student's mind by applying them to a variety of physical situations. Because of their conceptual importance, both as a starting point in physical reasoning and as a tool for codifying diverse physical phenomena, the various conservation laws receive particularly heavy emphasis.
Lecture demonstrations are an important component of the course.
In the laboratory, the validity of idealized assumptions is questioned. Some laboratories use conventional formats which verify a law, but others give the student a view of a much more genuine experimental situation. Exposure to electronic instrumentation, particularly the oscilloscope is desirable. Excessive zeal regarding precise measurement is generally avoided at this level. Data reduction and analysis are integral components of laboratory work.