Describes high school physics laboratory experiments that use lasers to show that a diffraction pattern is a Fourier analysis of the slit function. (MLH)

Surveys applications of physics in medicine, including the use of physical principles and techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and the use of these concepts in preventive medicine and safe clinical environments. (MLH)

Discusses theories about the possibility of the weakening or strengthening of the gravitational constant, and the cosmological effects of such a change. (MLH)

Discusses a proposed introductory physics program on the middle school level, including the use of experiments, abstract versus concrete concepts, and prerequisites. (MLH)

Discusses the renewed interest in superconductivity research and describes the differences between the two basic types of superconductivity. (MLH)

Discusses a new branch of optical spectroscopy that deals with the optical analogs of spin transients and provides ways to explore dynamic interactions in optically excited materials. (MLH)

Describes research and technological development relating to navigation on the oceans via sound, particularly via underwater sound. (SL)

Reports on a study in an introductory physics course in which 16 students were assessed using a portfolio-style procedure and 19 were assessed using traditional, objective examinations. Results suggest that portfolio-style assessment supports student achievement at least at the same level as traditional assessment procedures. It also appears to…

Spreadsheet programs are used increasingly by engineering students to solve problems, especially problems requiring repetitive calculations, as they provide rapid and simple numerical solutions. This article shows how advanced spreadsheet programs are used in the learning of numerical solutions of two-dimensional diffusion equation using the…

Integrating physical training with physics concepts gives teachers increased opportunities for exploration, problem solving, and concept application, while providing an additional medium for cooperative learning and mutual understanding of each others' goals and objectives. An interdisciplinary model requires alternative planning and preparation…

Reviews the theories and fundamental principles of physics as they relate to the comprehensibility of the cosmos. (DKM)

Describes procedures for a demonstration of the focal length of spherical lenses and mirrors using an aquarium, a flashlight, and nondairy creamer. Enables nonquantitative three-dimensional observation of these phenomena. (DDR)

Presents ideas for motivating students to create an informative and interesting physics project while becoming actively involved in learning the associated physics concepts. Discusses the use of physics projects as an alternative to lecture and traditional tests, using creativity and original ideas, and benefits to the school and the community.…

Examines student teachers' understanding of the concept of force using a two-part written questionnaire. Findings indicate that there is a serious discrepancy between student teachers' understanding of force and the accepted scientific view. Contains 20 references. (JRH)

Explains why transparency film demonstrates biaxial optical properties. Provides detailed descriptions of the procedure and equipment needed for large-scale optics demonstrations of the polarization interference pattern produced by biaxial crystals. (DDR)