Discusses a low-cost apparatus for measuring moment of inertia utilizing an interval timer, induction coil, battery eliminator, and ball bearing mounted disk. Also provides a method for demonstrating vectors using a cardboard box and a piece of string. (JM)

Describes a secondary-level physics course set up as a cooperative venture by an independent secondary school and a college. The course (part of the School-College Articulation Program (SCAP) combines content, style, and structure of college courses with surroundings familiar to students. Aims of the SCAP program are also described. (JN)

Describes a continuous sequence of development of arithmetical and ratio reasoning capacity which very few students now attain in introductory science courses. Sequence progresses from verbal interpretation of ratio of two numbers, to arithmetical reasoning involving division, coupling arithmetical reasoning to graphical representation, and to…

Discusses the microscopic interpretation of thermal conductivity of various forms of matter. Forms considered include gases, metals, and insulators. (JN)

Describes a computerized method to test error analysis that helps motivate introductory physics students to learn the topic. The computer generates a test consisting of four topics from a list of 10 that students should know. Numerical data within realistic ranges are also generated. (JN)

Although breathing is a universal activity among physicists (and others), few have bothered to estimate the number of molecules inhaled in a single average breath. Some simple calculations and comparisons related to this phenomenon are provided to improve students' appreciation of the awesome numbers related to Avogadro's number. (JN)

Discusses an accompanying centerfold which not only combines physics and history but also focuses on the matter of perspective. Names of scientists and their accomplishments as well as cultural and political milestones are included in the centerfold. (JN)

Several activities focusing on the elasticity of rubber bands and chalk are described. Explanations for the observations noted are included. (JN)

Reviews "Scatter," a software package consisting of three programs designed to help students "see" results of particle scattering and representative concepts difficult to show in introductory laboratories. Includes source, equipment needed, physics level, time involvement, interaction, and nature of programs. Recommends only the first part of the…

Describes "The Kinetic Karnival of Jearl Walker," six 30-minute television programs. Programs focus on: forces/collisions; rotation; fluid flow and friction; viscosity; Leidenfrost effect; and the science of cooking. Teacher's manual containing description, class preparation, questions, and bibliography are provided with each program (available in…

Discusses two activities suitable for group involvement or demonstration purposes. The first focuses on factors which determine how much time an object (such as a ball) will take to fall to the ground from a certain height. The second concerns the nonconservation of volume when two soluble liquids are added together. (JN)

Discusses errors/misleading statements concerning the principle of action/reaction as found in two published sources. The first, focusing on the application of Newton's third law to airplane lift, is found in a college-level text. The second, related to electromagnetic forces, is found in a book providing solutions to physics problems. (JN)

Describes a coriolis simulator which uses a carbon paper trace technique and a simple specific-heat apparatus, emphasizing instructional considerations. Also indicates that a variac and an ordinary electric drill can be used to wind coil if a lathe or coil winder are unavailable. (JN)

Discusses superconducting microelectronics based on the Josephson effect and its advantages over conventional integrated circuits in speed and sensitivity. Considers present uses in standards laboratories (voltage) and in measuring weak magnetic fields. Also considers future applications in superfast computer circuitry using Superconducting…

Describes the fine-beam cathode-ray tube, explaining observed phenomena from a visual, qualitative viewpoint. Discusses the reason for the fineness of the beam and provides the theoretical basis for the observed circular shape of the beam when the Helmholtz field is applied. (JM)