Procedures for using soap films to determine the shortest series of lines connecting several points. (CP)

Describes a novel instructional method for physics involving the use of a computer assisted instruction system equipped with cathode-ray-tube terminals, light pen, and keyboard input. Discusses exercises with regard to content, mediation, scoring and control. Several examples of exercises are given along with results from student evaluation. (LC)

Describes a method for the extraction and bioassay of natural germination inhibitors, requiring only inexpensive equipment and minimal experimental skill. The method has been used to demonstrate qualitative/quantitative differences in germination inhibitor levels in a variety of different fruits or in different tissues within a single fruit.…

An autocatalytic reaction is one in which the reaction is catalyzed by its own products. Materials needed and procedures used to demonstrate an autocatalytic reaction with bromethymol blue indicator are provided. (JN)

Discusses steps to be executed when studying physiological systems with theoretical mathematical models. Steps considered include: (1) definition of goals; (2) model formulation; (3) mathematical description; (4) qualitative evaluation; (5) parameter estimation; (6) model fitting; (7) evaluation; and (8) design of new experiments based on the…

Describes laboratory activities using algae as the organisms of choice. These include examination of typical algal cells, demonstration of alternation of generations, sexual reproduction in Oedogonium, demonstration of phototaxis, effect of nitrate concentration on Ankistrodesmus, and study of competition between two algae in the same environment.…

Thirteen questions about light and spectra are provided. Although they do not have clearcut answers, the questions highlight matters about scientific methodology, which is educationally important. Suggests that students perform experiments similar to those performed by Newton, Wollaston, and Fraunhofer. (JN)

Discusses progress made over the last two decades concerning the synthesis and possible unification of the three interactions (strong, electromagnetic, gravitational) relevant to high energy experiments. Areas addressed include quantum field theories, a unified quantum field theory, connection with cosmology, and possibilities for further…

Demonstrates construction of density constant and refractive index constant lines in triangular coordinate system on basis of systematic experimental determinations of density and refractive index for both homogeneous (single-phase) ternary liquid mixtures (of known composition) and the corresponding binary compositions. Background information,…

Reports results of experiments favoring use of 0.5 percent nitric acid with an oxidant (potassium dichromate or potassium permanganate) to preserve samples in polyethylene containers for mercury analysis. Includes procedures used and statistical data obtained from the experiments. (JN)

Many properties of new particle field theories can only be tested by comparing their predictions about the physical conditions immediately after the big bang with what can be reconstructed about this event from astronomical data. Facts/questions about big bang, unified field theories, and universe epochs/mass are among the topics discussed. (JN)

Annotates one book dealing with astronomy, two with energy and engines, and two with scientific experiments. (FL)