Describes the construction of lithographic gratings and Young's double slits by a contact print method that does not require any special skill or equipment. (JRH)

Describes the physics behind the shadows cast on a stream bed by subtle dimples on the surface of transparent water. (JRH)

Describes the construction of a new lighting system that uses a sulfur light source no bigger than a golf ball that emits enough light for an entire large room. Discusses the theory behind the system. (JRH)

Describes methods to observe diffraction effects without special equipment. Discusses the theory behind the different methods and associated problems. (JRH)

Standard calculus textbooks often include a related rates problem involving light cast onto a straight line by a revolving light source. Mathematical aspects to these problems (both in the solution and in the method by which that solution is obtained) are examined. (JN)

Examines the question "Why does light travel at speed c?", dispelling the widespread qualitative notion that the speed of light results from time delays in the interaction of electric and magnetic fields. Also presents information by which readers can work on their own qualitative insights concerning the speed of light. (JN)

Explores some of the principles behind the working of fluorescent bulbs using a specially prepared fluorescent bulb with the white inner fluorescent coating applied along only half its length. Discusses the spectrum, the bulb plasma, and light production. (JRH)

Describes a modification of the traditional demonstration of Newton's rings that magnifies the scale of the interference pattern so that the demonstration can be used for the whole class or for semiquantitative measurements in any high school laboratory. (JRH)

Discusses methods for plotting rates of photosynthesis as a function of light quantity. Presents evidence that suggests that empirically derived conversion factors, which are used to convert foot candles to photon fluence rates, should be used with extreme caution. Suggests how rate data are best plotted when any kind of light meter is not…

Examines energy interconversions in photosynthesis, limiting the discussion to areas pertinent to chemistry (particularly the energetics of the light reactions). Topic areas considered include bioenergetics, photochemistry, conversion of light energy into electrical potential energy, the chemiosmotic hypothesis, and others. (JN)

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)

Describes the construction and purpose of stress patterns that are easily observed in the rear windows of most cars. Presents an explanation for why we are able to see these stress patterns. (ZWH)

The differences between measuring light intensity for the human eye and for plant photosynthesis are discussed. Conversion factors needed to convert various units of light are provided. Photosynthetic efficiency and the electricity costs for plants to undergo photosynthesis using interior lighting are described. (KR)

This review of the literature examines the effects of blue light (or near UV - ultraviolet), especially that given off by black-light tubes, often used with children with visual impairments. It finds a long-term danger of retinal and lens damage and offers six practical suggestions which emphasize using proper filters and limiting exposure to…

Describes the use of carbide lights as an excellent mechanism for introducing or reviewing many basic chemistry concepts including elements and compounds, endothermic and exothermic reactions, physical and chemical changes, and balancing chemical equations. (JRH)