Presents (in the form of a dialogue between a student and teacher) an alternative method of using the Fine-Beam Cathode-Ray Tube to obtain the value for the specific electronic charge e/m. (JN)

Discusses using Apple II microcomputers for measuring resistance, temperature, and light intensity. Also discusses digital input and output and timing techniques. Although focusing on Apple II, the circuits and programs described may be applicable to other microcomputers. (JN)

Describes use of a slide presentation as a year-end review. Student responses to the presentation (which included slides of students engaged in physics activities) were extremely favorable. (JN)

Discusses how the caustic by reflection is formed. Indicates that the phenomenon can be demonstrated by showing the reflection of the light from a distant point source from the inner curve of a polished hoop of metal (such as a wedding ring). (JN)

Describes three demonstrations used in the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry polarized light show. The procedures employed are suitable for the classroom by using smaller polarizers and an overhead projector. Topic areas include properties of cellophane tape, nondisappearing arrows, and rope through a picket fence. (JN)

The usual apparatus for demonstrating Boyle's law produces reasonably accurate results, but is not impressive as a demonstration because students cannot easily appreciate the change in pressure. An apparatus designed to produce a more effective demonstration is described. Procedures employed are also described. (JN)

Discusses the operation of two automatic toasters, comparing and contrasting an old Sunbeam model (approximately 20 years old) with a Proctor-Silex, a model currently being sold. Includes schematic representation of parts of the Sunbeam and schematic of essential parts and circuit diagram of the Proctor-Silex. (JN)

Discusses why light is able to pass through a thick piece of glass but not through a thin piece of paper. (JN)

A simple device used to demonstrate the main features of primary color addition is described. Materials needed to construct the device, procedures used, and typical results are discussed. (JN)

Provided are activities focusing on phenomena associated with rotation of a double wheel (two bicycle wheels mounted on a common axis and free to rotate independently of each other) and on the operation of an electromagnetic toy car. (JN)

Provides (in table format) lists of chemistry prerequisites in biology textbooks, physics prerequisites in chemistry textbooks, chemistry prerequisites in physics textbooks, and mathematical requirements of physics and chemistry. Indicates that mathematical requirements for chemistry and physics are similar and that substantial chemistry and…

Describes a "no-cost" apparatus designed to demonstrate rotational inertia. Also describes and evaluates a microprocessor-based instrument (Versatile Laboratory Aid) that performs a large variety of timing and data acquisition tasks encountered in introductory and advanced physics laboratories. (JN)

Briefly considers the nature of physics laboratories and their role in the physics curriculum. Also considers three valuable outcomes of laboratory experiences: using equipment, doing real experiments, and handling phenomena. (JN)

A PET microcomputer is used as an accurate and programmable timer to support data acquisition from velocity experiments covering falling, rolling, and sliding objects, and human velocity, acceleration, and power measurements. The inexpensive instrumentation is simple and easy to use and compares favorably with conventional, more expensive…

Content, readability, safety aspects, appearance, technique, effectiveness of experiments, enrichment exercises, teacher aids, and special features of 12 physics laboratory manuals are reported and compared. (JN)