Describes the offering of a physics course where a mixture of teaching techniques and a wide variety of phenomena associated with light are used to attract students majoring in art, art history, psychology, photography etc. Indicates that the course is characterized by its in-depth and non-mathematical nature. (CC)

Experimental data, Federal and State regulations, and user data are presented to assess the safety factors of low-power lasers. General safety precautions, basic laser theory, the place of the laser in the classroom, and some introductory exercises are also presented. (Author/TS)

Provides a detailed, non-mathematical analysis of total internal reflection based on the interaction of light and matter and the principle of superposition. Discusses factors affecting the critical angle and the percent of the incident beam that is refracted and reflected. (JM)

In response to a question, "Why not use a magnetic or electric field to deflect light?," reviews the relation between electric charge and electric/magnetic fields. Discusses the Faraday effect, (describing matter as an intermediary in the rotation of the place of polarization) and other apparent interactions of light with electric/magnetic fields.…

Spatial filtering, based on diffraction/interference of light waves, is a technique by which unwanted information in a picture ("noise") can be separated from wanted information. A series of experiments is described in which students can create a system that functions as an optical computer to create clearer pictures. (Author/JN)

The camera presents an excellent way to illustrate principles of geometrical optics. Basic camera optics of the single-lens reflex camera are discussed, including interchangeable lenses and accessories available to most owners. Several experiments are described and results compared with theoretical predictions or manufacturer specifications.…

Describes advantages of using longer focal-length concave and convex cylindrical mirrors constructed from sheets of flexible, back-surfaced, mirrored acrylic plastic. Suggestions for several student experiments, along with typical experimental results, are also presented. (Author/JN)

Focuses on past achievements of physicists beginning with the discovery of gaseous nebulae and listing seven commonly found characteristics of this and other observational discoveries which can foster further discovery. Suggests how theory is related to observation and where physicists make their greatest contributions to astronomy. (Author/JN)

An experimental technique to develop inferential thinking in less scientifically-oriented community college students is described. Students activate unlabeled gas discharge tubes and identify the gases by comparing color photographs with spectrometer observations. Includes methods for taking color photographs of spectra. (SK)

Describes demonstrations using soap bubbles prepared from readily available materials to illustrate a number of scientific principles. (SK)

Demonstrates how depth of field, exposure correction, and Scheimpflug focusing are obtained for a view camera, using elementary optics. (CS)