Sample interview questions: How do you approach designing experiments to investigate the electrical or magnetic properties of inorganic materials?
Sample answer:
Approaching Electrical and Magnetic Property Investigation:
Experimental Design Considerations:
- Sample Preparation: Ensure high-quality, homogeneous samples with controlled composition and morphology. Consider synthesis techniques, purification methods, and sample characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Measurement Techniques: Select appropriate techniques based on the specific properties of interest. Common techniques include:
- Electrical conductivity: Four-probe method, resistivity measurements
- Magnetic susceptibility: SQUID magnetometer, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM)
- Magnetic resonance: Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
- Control Variables: Identify and control factors that could influence the measured properties, such as temperature, pressure, applied magnetic field, and sample orientation.
- Data Analysis and Interpretation: Develop robust data analysis methods to extract meaningful information, e.g., fitting experimental data to models or identifying trends and correlations.