Although diffusion is the subject of beginning chemistry classes, there are a variety of experiments, such as the spread of perfume in the classroom, that are often "incorrectly" explained by diffusion alone. To eliminate this common misconception, a recently published method is modified to determine the diffusion constant of hydrogen…

We present a sensitive diffusion cloud chamber which does not require any radioactive sources. A major difference from commonly used chambers is the use of a heat sink as its bottom plate. The result of a performance test of the chamber is given. (Contains 8 figures.)

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…

Examines the treatment of errors and significant figures in physics manuals as part of an evaluation of these instructional materials. Comments on specific materials reviewed are provided. (JN)

Describes an applied physics course which has been taught at Liverpool Polytechnic in the United Kingdom. Objectives, experimental work and assessment of the course are included. (HM)

Content, readability, safety aspects, appearance, technique, effectiveness of experiments, enrichment exercises, teacher aids, and special features of 12 physics laboratory manuals are reported and compared. (JN)

Reviews the Hafele-Keating experiment on relativistic changes in eastward and westward moving cesium atomic clocks. Recommends the use of the Sagnac effect to remove the east-west time asymmetry and of the general-relativistic effect to elucidate the clock-rate changes. (CC)

Presents the results of the evaluation of a self-paced freshman physics laboratory and its assessment procedures used in the first-year physics course at the University of Adelaide, South Australia. (HM)

A computerized library of references to integral neutron experiments has been developed at the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory at Livermore. This library serves as a data base for the systematic retrieval of documents describing diverse critical and bulk nuclear experiments. The evaluation and reduction of the physical parameters of the experiments…

Describes a college course that provides a challenging learning experience in science based upon famous experiments and observations dating from the time of Aristotle to the present day. Presents information concerning (1) the course organization, structure, laboratory development, and expectations; (2) course content by quarter; (3) evaluation of…

Compares between the component and the modules (system) approaches which are used to teach electronics at Croydon High School, Australia. The author presents some personal views from his experience of teaching both ways. (HM)

Describes an introductory physics laboratory course, used at the University of California in Berkeley, designed to teach students some general intellectual skills. Results of the course evaluation are also discussed. (HM)

Administered a laboratory process skills test to 147 year-5 students to assess their investigations, performance, and reasoning in biology, chemistry, and physics. Reports significant correlation between performance and amount of homework done and students' perceptions of several aspects of the classroom environment including personalization,…

Contrasts spontaneous and reflective knowledge integration instruction delivered using a computer learning environment to enhance understanding of displaced volume. Distinguishes the impact of instruction on students who believed scientific phenomena are governed by principles (cohesive beliefs) versus students who believed that science is a…