Discusses the history of American physics, indicating that much effort has been on the atomic bond and high-energy physics, to the detriment of other topics and areas. To offset this tendency, significant research is going on in the history of solid-state physics, with glimmerings in the history of physics education. (JN)

A short history of Newton's work in optics, mathematics, and astronomy. (BB)

This editorial proposes that famous people in physics be immortalized as heroes through trading cards that present their pictures, personal backgrounds, and contributions to physics. Includes 18 cards for the first collection. (MDH)

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)

Discusses similarities between chemistry and three central concepts of quantum physics: (1) stationary states; (2) wave functions; and (3) complementarity. Based on these and other similarities, it is indicated that quantum physics is a chemical physics. (JN)

Outlines an instructional approach that involves the collecting of stamps to lower student's resistance to the study of physics and raise their interest in the history of the subject. (ZWH)

Highlights the programs and educational offerings of the Center for History of Physics in New York City that was established by the American Institute of Physics. Reviews the variety of resources associated with the facility and outlines the specific services provided for educators and the public. (ML)

Discusses the nature, resolution, focal length, and angle of a pinhole camera. Describes the development and some applications of the camera. Nineteen references are listed. (YP)

Presents a brief historical sketch of the life and work of one of the founders of modern mathematical physics. Discusses three problem-solving applications of the Poisson distribution with examples from elementary probability theory. Provides background on two of his noteworthy results from the physics of oscillations and the deformation of rigid…

Presents a short biographical sketch of the great mathematician, Henri Poincar, whose significant achievements in mathematics were applications within the fields of astronomy and physics. (JJK)

Presents notes on three physics experiments on (1) light and lenses, (2) determination of the pVT surface of a freon, and (3) use of an eyepiece with microscopes and telescopes. (RH)

In 1935 physicist Hideki Yukawa proposed the meson theory of nuclear forces. Background, influences, and chronology of Yukawa's work are presented and discussed. Yukawa was supported in his meson idea by Japan's strong emphasis on intuitive and creative approaches which are also evident in subsequent developments in that country. (DH)

Describes a two-semester physics course developed at the University of Alberta, Canada to present the development of some of the major theories in physics and their interaction with the prevailing cultures, religions, and philosophies. (HM)

Summarizes the development of the Earth's age calculation including the work of Archbishop Ussher, James Hutton, Lord Kelvin, Ernest Rutherford, Bertram Boltwood, and Arthur Holmes. Describes the changes in radioisotope dating methods. (YP)

Recounts the contributions of Robert Goddard from the years of 1911 to 1930 to the development of the physics of rocketry. Discusses the results of Goddard's series of rocket experiments endorsed by the Smithsonian Institute, and Goddard's claims to priority in the development of rocket theory. (MDH)