Describes construction/use of a device to simulate structures produced in fault zones of dominantly strike-dip motion. Apparatus modifications allow simulation of transtension and transpression as well as pure strike-slip fault motion. Illustrates formation of several structures using the apparatus, comparing them with natural examples. Includes…

A simple device that aids in plotting poles to planes on structural equal-area diagrams (pi diagrams) is described. It is used in conjunction with a standard equal area Schmidt net to assist students in understanding principles of plotting pi diagrams and for rapid plotting of large amounts of data. (BC)

Speed and simplicity allow the refractometer to be used at many levels of instruction. The optical theory for its operation is reviewed, as are the various uses of the refractometer, including its usefulness in introducing and demonstrating optical theory and in determining optical properties of minerals. (PR)

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…

An inexpensive, simple mechanical model of a fault can be produced to simulate the effects leading to an earthquake. This model has been used successfully with students from elementary to college levels and can be demonstrated to classes as large as thirty students. (DF)

Describes an inexpensive technique which can be used to convert a slide projector into a polarized light source. (CP)

Describes an inexpensive means for determining proximate analysis of coal, and by use of this data, its energy content. Pyrite content is also obtained by utilizing magnetic properties of iron. The simple device used makes the experiment suitable for the undergraduate laboratory. (Author/JN)

Cathodoluminescence is visible light emitted from a specimen when it is bombarded with electrons. A technique known as cathodoluminescence petrography can provide information especially useful in studies or courses related to mineralogy and petrology. The technique is briefly presented, along with examples to illustrate typical results. (Author/WB)

Crushed glass and a Rhodamine B solution are used in a one-dimensional optically scanned column experiment to study the dispersion phenomenon in porous media. Results indicate that the described model gave satisfactory results and that the dispersion process in this experiment is basically convective. (DC)

Beverage cans are well suited for sediment collection and storage containers. Advantages include being free, readily available, and the correct size for many samples. Instruction for selection, preparation, and use of cans in sediment collection and storage is provided. (RE)

Describes an inexpensive modeling technique for demonstrating large-scale displacement phenomena in rock masses, such as slope collapse and failure of underground openings. Excavation of the model material occurs through openings made in the polyurethane foam in the correct excavation sequence. (Author/SA)

Described is the use of a microcomputer and computer software to simulate the use of geological equipment. The technique uses pictures of the control panel (with switches and dials that can be activated) and a story board that can provide the simulation. A simple seismograph is used as an example of possible simulations. (RH)

Describes the use of the magnetometer in an introductory undergraduate geology course. (SL)