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

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)

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)

Discusses refraction in terms of the deviation of light. Points out that in physics courses where very little mathematics is used, it might be more suitable to describe refraction entirely in terms of the deviation, rather than by introducing Snell's law. (DH)

Presents a demonstration that uses a laptop computer as a source of polarized light to make clear the principle behind a liquid-crystal display (LCD). (JRH)

Presents the theory behind the spots of light observed inside a balloon when it is exposed to light. Discusses the use of this phenomenon in teaching optics lessons. (JRH)

Describes a method to trace the reflection of a light ray incident on a pair of mirrors hinged together along one edge. Can be extended to ray tracing through tubes, cones, and prisms. (JRH)

Describes an experiment that allows the students to verify the assumption that light travels in straight lines. (GS)

Explains the physical principles which result in various colors of the sky. Topics addressed include: blueness, mystical properties of water vapor, ozone, fluctuation theory of scattering, variation of purity and brightness, and red sunsets and sunrises. (DH)

Describes an exercise that allows the measurement of the sizes of biological samples by means of the diffraction of light. (JRH)

Describes a method to combine two learning experiences--optical physics and matrix mathematics--in a straightforward laboratory experiment that allows engineering/physics students to integrate a variety of learning insights and technical skills, including using lasers, studying refraction through thin lenses, applying concepts of matrix…