Discusses indoor rocketry and use of a vivid model of human birth. Also discusses information (momentum/force) indicating how a motorcycle can be driven up around the increasing slope of an elliptical path, a food testing worksheet, and a worksheet on light for upper elementary/lower middle school students. Includes sample worksheets. (Author/JN)

Describes ray tracing techniques and the method of virtual mirrors to locate images when using multiple mirrors. (JN)

Discusses a laboratory experiment, using the single-photon counting technique, to determine the fluorescence spectrum of NaI(T1) crystal under gamma excitation. (Author/GA)

Presents descriptions of three experimental procedures for physics classes: forced oscillations, measuring the refractive index of perspex, and measuring the critical potentials of helium. (SA)

Describes a world-wide science project aiming to help students measure the absence of light. The project is accomplished through the Internet. On the first day of Spring, students from all over the world will measure their shadows (absence of light) and use the information to compare and contrast data with that of other students participating in…

Investigates the relationship between knowledge of geometrical optics and the understanding of the phenomenon of colored shadows through adult interviews. Reports that the knowledge of geometrical optics facilitates the pinpointing of the color problem while experience with the mixing of paints may act as a barrier. (Author/YP)

Reviews three videotapes for physics teachers: (1) "Determination of the Newtonian Constant of Gravitation" showing the Cavendish experiment; (2) "Preview Film for RAM-Tutor Media" introducing a series of seven videocassettes covering physics; and (3) "Determination of the Velocity of Light" using a rotating mirror. (YP)

Discusses laser demonstration for invoking interest in science, especially physics. Describes some examples, such as diffraction, scattering, expansion by diverging lens, internal reflection in a light pipe, and illumination through optical cable. Provides some practical hints for the demonstration. (YP)

Describes construction and use of a simple home-built device, using an overhead projector, for use in demonstrations of the addition of various combinations of red, green, and blue light. Useful in connection with discussions of color, color vision, or color television. (JRH)

Utilizes vector mathematics to explain the reflective properties of a corner cube retroreflector, consisting of three plane mirrors assembled at right angles with a common vertex. Analyzes the useful property that an incident beam of light at any point in this reflector will return on a parallel path. (MDH)

Discussed is whether high school students of teachers trained in the use of open-ended historical experiments dealing with light and sound perceive physics in a more favorable light. The effect of the training on the participants' classrooms on both teachers and students (n=130) is investigated. (KR)

Addresses the problem that students balk at the notion velocities do not add algebraically. Offers a geometric model to verify the algebraic formulas that calculate velocity addition. Representations include Galilean relativity, Einstein's composition of velocities, and the inverse velocity transformation. (MDH)

Students explore three-dimensional properties by creating red and green wall decorations related to Christmas. Students examine why images seem to vibrate when red and green pieces are small and close together. Instructions to conduct the activity and construct 3-D glasses are given. (MDH)

Describes the construction of a demonstration apparatus to illustrate the law of strings by using the light from a television screen to slow down the apparent motion of the waves of a string. (MDH)

Presents three teaching ideas entitled (1) Rearview Mirrors; (2) Chills and Fevers; and (3) Science Activities and the Learner. The second idea presents a poem to help students with the relationship between Centigrade and Fahrenheit. The third idea presents activities on evaporation. (PR)