Discusses the use of laser spectroscopy in determining the presence of specific gaseous constituents. Three of currently used modes for laser detection of pollution are reviewed; (1) long-path measurements; (2) laser raman (differential absorption) measurements; and (3) optoacoustic detection. (HM)

Describes a currently used picosecond spectroscopy system capable of reliably recording picosecond events. Two areas of picosecond research are discussed: one concerns the interaction of electrons in fluids; the second, the primary events in vision. (Author/HM)

Shows how Maxwell's equations can be obtained by starting with a relatively simple pseudoscalar and scalar potential employing only the Lorentz transformation for a four vector (or pseudovector). (GA)

Describes an undergraduate experiment of research potential. The experiment cconsists of measuring the time of contact of a metal rod bouncing on a steel base as a function of the velocity of impact, length, diameter, and material of the rod. (GA)

Describes a thermocouple circuit used to measure Joule heating as well as Peltier heating and cooling for a copper-Constantan metallic junction. Shows how the Seebeck effect from a thermocouple can monitor the temperature condition of a junction with regard to input power and Peltier effect. (Author/GA)

Describes the various attempts, efforts and experiments that were carried out by the leading investigators in the field in their search for electromagnetic induction phenomena. (GA)

Describes the modern theory of electrical conduction in metals. Shows that, even after 50 years of its creation, it still has many challenges. (GA)

Describes a college course on special relativity designed for students with minimal mathematical background. It explains the course highlights and its administration and evaluation procedures. (GA)

Describes an open-ended laboratory project suited to science materials. The students are asked to determine the structure, the properties and possible applications of a commercial material that is being developed and supplied by the manufacturer. (GA)

Describes how to implement numerical integration on a pocket calculator to solve two kinds of differential equations important in physics. The two equations are those defining simple harmonic and quantum harmonic motion. The half-increment method is used for this purpose. (GA)

Describes an electronic circuit which can be used to demonstrate the stellar magnitude scale. Six rectangular light-emitting diodes with independently adjustable duty cycles represent stars of magnitudes 1 through 6. Experimentally verifies the logarithmic response of the eye. (Author/GA)

Presents aims of, and recommendations developed by, a conference held in Malaysia, in 1977, for the purpose of discussing the problems of teaching physics in the Southeast Asian region. The recommendations dealt with ways of developing and achieving cultural self-reliance in physics education. (GA)

Discusses, classically and quantum mechanically, the angular momentum induced in the bound motion of an electron by an external magnetic field. Calculates the current density and its magnetic moment, and then uses two methods to solve the first-order perturbation theory equation for the required eigenfunction. (Author/GA)

This is part two of a series. It covers industrial vapor explosions and gives case histories of water-molten metal explosions. (BB)

Reviews research and technical problems related to the use of tidal power as an energy source. (SL)