Following a rationale for focusing on this topic, a molecular and nonmathematical approach is used to explain the basics of the flow (rheological) behavior of polymer melts, emphasizing the behavior of melts compared to that of solutions. (JN)

Suggests the topic of macromolecules and synthetic polymers be included in undergraduate courses. Two macromolecular systems (polyethylene in a state unperturbated by long-range interactions and a polypeptide undergoing a helix-coil transition) are described which are suitable for inclusion in the statistical mechanics section of physical…

Reviews the characteristics, reactions, importance, and commercial applications of block and graft copolymers. (JN)

Encourages new PhDs in analytical chemistry to carefully consider college teaching as a career choice by pointing out some assets and liabilities of the profession. Discusses academic freedom, salary ranges, job security, and potential rewards of teaching college students. (SK)

Suggests industrial training of Japanese engineers since engineering education in Japan focuses on abstract science and rote learning of fundamental principles and not on practical laboratory experiences characteristic of training in the United States. (SK)

Traces the development of quantum field theory over the last 50 years beginning with the research of Paul Dirac. Includes past and current research endeavors of various scientists. (JN)

Reviews the development of accelerators over the past 50 years. Topics include: types of accelerators, including cyclotrons; sociology of accelerators (motivation, financing, construction, and use); impact of war; national laboratories; funding; applications; future projects; foreign projects; and international collaborations. (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)

Reviews the history of vacuum technology. Includes vacuum pump developments (mechanical, ion, and cyrogenic pumps), measurement techniques, the development of the American Vacuum Society, and electronics in vacuum technology. (JN)

Argues for the acceptance and use of a five-kingdom classification system for biology comprised of monera, protoctista, fungi, animals, and plants. Justifies the new system based upon the difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Outlines each kingdom and describes its members. (DC)

Summarizes current information on the structure and function of cilia. Three types of experiments are suggested using paramecium to investigate aspects of ciliate behavior. (Author/DC)

Students complete a project at Ohio University to understand the process of plant design. This and other goals of a plant design course are discussed, including student/instructor presentations and typical problems confronted by the instructors of the course. (JN)

Discusses a design course to provide design experiences, increase personal awareness, and increase communication skills. In addition to designing projects and considering the design decision-making process, group dynamics is fostered, using groups formed on the basis of results from the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). (JN)

Identifies three classifications of scientific ideas (center, frontier, fringe) and defines fringe as a region where ideas are highly speculative or weakly confirmed. Points out the factual and logical fallacies of fringe science through questions based upon scientific methodology, discussion, and numerous examples from the past and present. (DC)

Describes the features and operation of an inexpensive digital pH meter. Includes a schematic diagram of the pH meter and a parts list with cost and source of each part. (SK)