Describes an experiment that involves measuring the intensity of laser light passed by a linear polarizer. Discusses polarization effects, orthogonal polarizations, instrumentation, and further experiments. (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)

Laser refractometry is a science-technology-based activity that requires students to manipulate a variety of equipment, tools, materials, and critical-thinking skills. Students use a laser to measure the percent of glucose in a solution by calibrating the system, taking measurements, and computing the concentration. (MKR)

This article describes the basic physics of several types of holograms and discusses different recording materials in use. Current and possible future applications of holograms are described as well as their large-scale production. (Author)

Describes a holographic method of producing a picture of a real lens, objects, and the virtual image of the objects. (SL)

Using the simple optical system and photodiode described in this article it is possible to give clear, quantitative demonstrations of all the Fraunhofer diffraction phenomena at single and multiple apertures. These measurements can be related to the theoretical predictions given in standard textbooks. Circuit diagram and optical layout are…

Describes an alternate method of demonstrating thin film interference fringes with a laser by using a microscope slide glass cover. (MKR)

Investigates the effect of the nonuniform irradiance across a laser beam on diffraction of the beam, specifically the Fraunhofer diffraction of a laser beam with a Gaussian irradiance profile as it passes through a circular aperture. (GA)

Describes the theory and application of an atomic fountain which pushes the atoms by laser pulses. Discusses the applications in measuring atomic properties and in building an atomic clock. (YP)

Examines techniques used to make ultrasensitive spectroscopic measurements. They include excitation, thermal lens, photo acoustic, and ionization spectroscopies. Guidelines and methods are provided for each technique; common uses and applications are explained. (DH)

Describes several different philosophies of mind with each philosophy's explanation of the mind-body problem. Philosophies discussed include dualism, materialism, functionalism, radical behaviorism, logical behaviorism and central-state identity. (DS)

Describes a physics exercise designed for biology and premed majors. The activity is a low intensity laser light scattering laboratory exercise to determine the diameter of micron-sized latex spheres (simulated microbes) in water suspension. (GA)

Describes the apparatus and procedures for conducting a simple speed of light experiment in an average laboratory using a laser source, a rotating mirror, and an oscilloscope. (SL)

Describes use of a Fresnel biprism to demonstrate double-slit interference with polarized light. Discusses polarization and phase properties of a randomly polarized gas. (JM)

Recommends an experiment which will help students experience the physical evidence that floors, tables, and walls actually bend when pressure is exerted against them. Set-up includes: laser, radio, solar cell, and wall-mounted mirror. When the beam is moved by pressure on the wall, participants can "hear the wall bend." (DH)