The relationship of the mechanics of a falling chimney and a breaking pencil point is presented. A device is discussed that uses a pocket calculator coupled to a telescope to record the angle at which the telescope is pointed. (BB)

Discusses various aspects of fly casting to illuminate the physics of fishing. They include examining whether the bending of the rod propels the fly as a bow propels an arrow and determining how an angler resists the pull of a hooked fish while reeling it in. (JN)

A homemade device for testing particle scattering is described. Also described are experiments in zero gravity conducted in free fall in the cargo space of an airplane belonging to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. (JN)

Presents a lesson in the mechanics of rotation which deals with setting the playground swing into motion. Discusses the scientific principles involved in these procedures. Illustrations of several explanations are included. (RT)

Explains and illustrates strange events which occur when two pendulums interact through a variety of interconnections. Phenomena addressed include: pendulums coupled by a spring, rod, or string; vertical and rotational oscillations, and synchronous and mirror-image swinging. A resonant-spring pendulum and a Wilberforce pendulum are also discussed.…

Discusses the applications of the principles of mechanics to rock climbing techniques. Provides illustrations showing the applied force vectors. (YP)

Lists several ideas for experiments for the amateur scientist to try or design. The list covers a wide range of topics; sound, mechanics, thermodynamics, fluids, optics, and electrostatics. (GA)

Discusses how the sun's reflection from water offers a means for calculating sloped of waves. Experiments using angles of reflection from a tilted mirror are suggested and explained. A method of counterbalancing dominoes in a stack beyond the edge of a table (using Euler's constant) is also described. (DH)

Discusses the change in pressure as a balloon expands. Describes the pressure change in a spherical soap bubble and a rubber membrane on the tube. Provides demonstrations when two balloons are connected by a tube. Lists five further reading materials. (YP)

Explains the variables involved when stopping a car on various types of pavement, braking schemes and additional concerns. (RT)

Discusses advantages of the Stirling engine. Describes the details of constructing one from common materials, and its use for studying thermodynamics. (YP)

Discusses various physics concepts/principles that can be illustrated by amusement park rides. Examples of rotational dynamics, energy conservation, acceleration, and others can be demonstrated by such rides as roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and a variety of rotating rides. (JN)

Three physics experiments are described, minimizing difficulties for amateur experimenters. One experiment demonstrates the Doppler shift of light, converting the phenomenon into sound. The second measures Planck's constant. The third measures the universal gravitational constant, which does the same in Newton's theory of gravitation. (Author/JN)

Discusses the shock wave sweeping through traffic flow. Describes the characteristics of kinematic waves in different traffic flows. Presents the author's experiences in studying traffic flow. (YP)

Examines hydraulic jumps and suggests several simple experiments which can be carried out with limited equipment. (DS)