Presents a simple experiment to compare the performance of the PASCO Introductory Dynamics System with that of an Ealing student air track. Discusses the relative advantages of both. Concludes that for a wide assortment of motion activities in a low friction environment, or studies of frictional forces, the PASCO Introductory Dynamics System is a…

A relatively simple opto-electronic setup is described that utilizes a cadmium sulphide (CdS) photoconductive cell to detect resonance of a stretched vibrating string or wire. The display may be either an oscilloscope or a frequency counter. Also describes an inexpensive socket for flanged-base light bulbs. (JN)

Describes the working of the Adiabatic Gas Law Apparatus, a useful tool for measuring the pressure, temperature, and volume of a variety of gases undergoing compressions and expansions. Describes the adaptation of this apparatus to perform isothermal measurements and discusses the theory behind the adiabatic and isothermal processes. (JRH)

Describes a simple apparatus used to demonstrate the thermal conductivity of gases. Procedures for completing the demonstration are included. (JN)

Describes the design and use of a projectile motion apparatus to illustrate a variety of projective motion results typically discussed in an introductory course. They include independence of horizontal (constant speed) and vertical (constant acceleration) motions, parabolic path shape, and other types of motion. (JN)

Describes the experimental and theoretical details for constructing and calibrating an inexpensive, homemade liquid-lens refractometer. Measures refractive indices that are within the experimental errors discussed and close to the literature values. (JRH)

Students in hydrogeology classes commonly have difficulty appreciating differences between the mechanisms of water release from confined and unconfined aquifers. Describes a simple and inexpensive laboratory model for demonstrating the hydraulic responses of confined and unconfined aquifers to pumping. Includes a worked example to demonstrate the…

Describes how to make an electroscope from aluminum soft drink or beer cans. Also describes several electrostatic experiments using the easily constructed apparatus. (JN)

This final article in the series on the fine-beam cathode-ray tube presents: (1) additional investigations; (2) an alternative method for the electron e/m and synchrotron radiation; and (3) two challenges to students (in a dialogue format) together with a lengthy discussion on synchrotron radiation sources. (DH)

Describes a colorimetric titration instrument usable in the undergraduate laboratory that fulfills the objectives of ruggedness, freedom from ambient light interference, and low cost. Although accessories can be added (raising the price), the basic instrument is low priced and can be used manually with a simple voltmeter. (JN)

Describes a new, modified "flash chromatography" apparatus which overcomes difficulties found in conventional apparatus. For example, an expensive teflon pressure valve is not necessary in the modified version. The apparatus is suitable as an instructional tool in undergraduate courses. (JN)

Presents seven notes on new equipment, techniques, or materials of interest to teachers of physics. A circuit of a low-cost computer terminal to audiovisual device interface, and a demonstration of the buoyancy of air are among notes presented. (HM)

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)