In this paper I explain how I usually introduce the Schrödinger equation during the quantum mechanics course. My preferred method is the chronological one. Since the Schrödinger equation belongs to a special case of wave equations I start the course with introducing the wave equation. The Schrödinger equation is derived with the help of the two…

In this paper, we present the spontaneous and reasoned approaches by a Physicist (B.C.) and a Mathematician (T.B.). Section 1 is by B.C and section 2 is by T.B.

This dissertation focuses on three different populations of learners served by typical physics departments: STEM majors within a calculus-based introductory physics course, non-STEM majors within a general education survey astronomy course (Astro 101), and in- service STEM teachers within a professional development workshop. The three studies…

Most people are familiar with arc discharges through the use of simple gas lighters within the home but corona discharges are not so common. This note presents students with three simple corona discharge experiments so that they can appreciate this form of electrical discharge. Firstly, one detects whether positive or negative ions are created;…

Given the great interest that black holes arouse among non-specialists, it is important to analyse misconceptions related to them. According to the author, the most common misconceptions are that: (1) black holes are formed from stellar collapse; (2) they are very massive; (3) they are very dense; (4) their gravity absorbs everything; and (5) they…

A spinning top with a spherical bottom end was constructed to examine its behaviour. Experimental results were consistent with theoretical predictions.

A simple and economical system that allows one to obtain the characteristic "I-V" curve in solar cells is presented. It is a computer-controlled system suitable as an instrumentation project for students who are learning about photovoltaic systems. This system is based on the use of an "R-3R" ladder circuit as a variable…

In this paper we derive and discuss the time it takes for a force to turn a velocity. More precisely, we derive the formula for the time t it takes a constant force that makes an angle a with the initial velocity v(0) to have v(Tau) get within an angle ? < a of the force. We then show how the addition of a viscous force decreases Tau…

The construction of a linear speaker array, which emits coherent sound radiation from multiple sources, is described. The device is an improvement over the two-speaker systems for demonstrating wave interference effects. The operation of the array is demonstrated with example data.

The PhiTOP® (or FTOP®) is a physics toy designed not only to act as a spinning top but also to appeal to the eye and to the scientifically curious mind.1 It is currently made in two versions, one from solid aluminum and the other solid brass. Each top is highly polished, and is elliptical in one cross section and circular in another. Its name…

The article presents the results of an experimental study on the motion of a neodymium magnet on an inclined duralumin plate. During experiments, the time of motion was measured, and the steady-state velocity of the magnet motion was determined. To measure the time, a robotic set was used, which made it possible to measure the time of the motion…

Oscillatory motion with damping proportional to the velocity is part of all upper-class physics courses and some introductory courses; however, the emphasis is primarily on the free amplitude decay. Microelectromechanical (MEMs) accelerometers allow the acceleration to be directly measured and the velocity and displacement to be derived from it.…

The High Road/Low Road race is often used as a qualitative prediction activity. A marble is released simultaneously on two elevated tracks that differ only in the middle section where the Low Road dips before finishing at the same height as the High Road. Typically a minority of students correctly predict that the Low Road will finish first. In…

The compensation pendulum is a pendulum that is constructed in a way that its length does not vary by changes of temperature. As the temperature of the air around the clock goes up, the rod of a regular pendulum clock mechanism expands and the clock runs slower. Historically, it has proven easier to compensate for changes in the ambient…

All physics is fascinating, but some stories are more exciting than others. A story that involves some of the most precise measurements ever made and a tantalizing discrepancy might be one of the most interesting. Throw in a 3200-mile journey, a heavily laden truck covered by a tarpaulin, closed-down highways with police escorts, and hushed…