Discusses the production of hundreds of pinhole images of a recent eclipse of the sun through the leaf canopy. Provides photograph of the images. (MVL)

A brochure was sent to all eligible students as a method for increasing enrollment in high school physics. Presents a number of arguments for encouraging students to take physics. (MVL)

Though the field of physics is moving toward more realistic problems and the use of computers and mathematical modeling to promote insightful treatment of physical problems, artificial problems still appear in textbooks in the field of electrostatics. Discusses physical arguments why one of the most popular textbook applications of Coulomb's Law…

Describes learnings originating from a simple pendulum simulation using "interactive physics" simulations. Discusses tension in the rope, acceleration of the pendulum bob, and initial displacements. (JRH)

Presents a demonstration that attracts and then repels soap bubbles to a Van de Graaff generator. Discusses theory and describes the event that led to the development of this demonstration. (JRH)

Describes construction and operation of an inexpensive and portable educational hallway exhibit on color mixing. (JRH)

The introduction of informatics in the teaching of natural science is discussed with particular reference to the generally adopted utilization of the computer as a laboratory instrument. (Author)

Several examples illustrate the human tendency to underestimate the degree of uncertainty present in any theory about the nature of the world. The fallibility of conclusions must always be recognized by the researcher, who must continually challenge assumptions and rethink beliefs. (SLD)

Introduces the basics of radio astronomy and describes how to assemble several simple systems for receiving radio signals from the cosmos. Includes schematics, parts lists, working drawings, and contact information for radio astronomy suppliers. (11 references) (Author/JJK)

Reviews the discovery, the properties, and the composition of the physical phenomena of fields with a focus on magnetic and electrical fields and what makes them special. Provides a method to detect and estimate the strength of electromagnetic fields using an ordinary portable radio. (Author/JJK)

A discussion of what E=mc2 means and other issues associated with the equation are presented. The differences between matter, mass, and energy, a derivation of the equation, the history of the word mass and examples of how it is used, misconceptions surrounding the equation, and a discussion of uranium fission are included. (KR)

An event that created a revolution in physics, the birth of quantum mechanics, is discussed. The rich, complex, dramatic as well as touching story of fights and contradictions between two groups of great scientists is described. (Author)

Discusses role of laboratory techniques in scientific investigations. Describes Rutherford's development of scattering techniques and von Wassermann's development of test for syphilis. States that discovering an effect requires a brilliant scientist, however, making it a technique requires that it be made usable by ordinary people. Uses Moseley's…

The interrelationship between the various forms of the Planck radiation equation is discussed. A differential equation that gives intensity or energy density of radiation per unit wavelength or per unit frequency is emphasized. The Stefan-Boltzmann Law and the change in the glow of a hot body with temperature are also discussed. (KR)

Suggests that Robert Frost's poem entitled "West-Running Brook" should be used to illustrate the second law of thermodynamics. The poem is included in the article. (ZWH)