Describes an experiment that involves measuring the intensity of laser light passed by a linear polarizer. Discusses polarization effects, orthogonal polarizations, instrumentation, and further experiments. (JRH)

Offers information, objectives, possible student outcomes, a student quiz on electronic imaging technologies. Discusses the evolution of the process from the development of the camera in the 1550s to virtual reality, infrared imaging, and laserdisks. (JOW)

Summarizes the current status of laser printers in terms of cost, hardware and software requirements, measurement and operational considerations, ease of use, and maintenance. The cost effectiveness of laser printing in libraries for applications such as spine labels, purchase orders, and reports, is explored. (9 notes with references) (CLB)

Presents a participation activity for students of all ages that stimulates the processes that occur in the build-up of a laser pulse. Exposes students to the concepts of coherence, monochromaticity, stimulated emission, pulse build-up from background fluctuations, and the properties that dictate the shape of a typical laser pulse. (JRH)

Describes the use of a laser pointer to measure the speed of light by incorporating the phase delay between a modulated split beam of light. (JRH)

Presents a "family tree" of optical technologies with a list of definitions, and briefly discusses some of the issues relating to optical technologies and their use in libraries. (CLB)

Describes the use of free-electron lasers as a source of coherent radiation over a broad range of wavelengths from the far-infrared to the far-ultraviolet regions of the spectrum. Discusses some applications of these lasers, including medicine and strategic defense. (TW)

Laser refractometry is a science-technology-based activity that requires students to manipulate a variety of equipment, tools, materials, and critical-thinking skills. Students use a laser to measure the percent of glucose in a solution by calibrating the system, taking measurements, and computing the concentration. (MKR)

Presents both a geometric model of the hologram and a step-by-step guide to the procedures involved in making a hologram. (Author/CP)

This guide outlines the competency-based, two-year precision optics curriculum that the American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association has proposed to fill the void that it suggests will soon exist as many of the master opticians currently employed retire. The model, which closely resembles the old European apprenticeship model, calls for 300…

This article discusses the procedure, historical development, and applications of holography, and discusses the feasibility and value of implementing a unit or course of study of laser holography into an existing photography laboratory and curriculum. An equipment and supplies list, giving supplies and cost, is included. (CT)

Reviews applications of laser methods to analytical problems, selecting examples from multiphoton ionization and fluorescence analysis. Indicates that laser methodologies promise to improve dramatically the detection of trace substances embedded in "real" matrices, giving the analyst a most powerful means for determining the composition of…

This article describes the basic physics of several types of holograms and discusses different recording materials in use. Current and possible future applications of holograms are described as well as their large-scale production. (Author)

Provides an alternative method of using water instead of a mirror to create a laser light show. (ZWH)

This laboratory training manual on laser communications and fiber optics may be used in a general technology-communications course for ninth graders. Upon completion of this exercise, students achieve the following goals: match concepts with laser communication system parts; explain advantages of fiber optic cable over conventional copper wire;…