The NASA public archives present a vast resource of authentic satellite data that research astronomers have tapped into for decades. Recently, the same data analysis tools used by professional astronomers have been adapted into a browser-based interface called JS9 for easy use by any interested student. Tutorials and classroom-ready activities…

Each year our physical science class for pre-service elementary teachers launches water-powered rockets based on the activity from NASA. We analyze the rocket flight using data from frame-by-frame video analysis of the launches. Before developing the methods presented in this paper, we noticed our students were mired in calculation details while…

This paper provides examples of naturally radioactive items that are likely to be found in most communities. Additionally, there is information provided on how to acquire many of these items inexpensively. I have found that the presence of these materials in the classroom is not only useful for teaching about nuclear radiation and debunking the…

Explains a technique to create animated films for aid in the instruction of relativistic mechanics through the use of a computer. (CP)

Utilizes the computer for analysis of the indices of refraction of several liquids in the PSSC refraction lab. (CP)

Described is a situation where students are allowed to enlist the aid of a computer graphing program to produce graphs for their lab reports. (KR)

Presents pendulum lab results as an example for students on the write-up of experiments. (PR)

Discusses how a spreadsheet might be used in an introductory physics laboratory. Describes three categories of spreadsheet uses, advantages of spreadsheet, layout, accuracy, and modifications. Gives an example of the variable mass rocket problem with typical display. (YP)

Introduces a computer solution of the oscillation of a mass suspended by a spring in a viscous liquid. Describes the equations of motion, spreadsheet solution, copying the formulas, plotting the results, and extending the applications. Presents spreadsheet and physics formulas for the step-by-step solution and spreadsheet solution. (YP)

Describes an experimental sequence using the force probe to develop the relationship between net force and acceleration. (PR)

Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)