Provides an answer to the question of why it is easy to miss when shooting uphill or downhill. Experimental results indicate that when shooting uphill or downhill, sight should not be adjusted to actual distance but to distance multiplied by the cosine of the inclination angle. (JN)

Describes use of brass electrodes (replacing conductive ink and push pins) in the field-mapping experiment. Also describes use of birch plywood for building a circuit board and a demonstration in which a resemblance of the Cheshire Cat is made to appear and reappear. (JN)

Discusses approach to integrating computer programing into a calculus-based physics survey college course which stresses three major uses of computers: data reduction, calculation, and simulation. An initial programing exercise and practical constraints--time a student can allot to course and student's level of confidence--are mentioned. (EJS)

"Planetary Motion Simulations" is a system of programs designed for students to observe motions of a superior planet (one whose orbit lies outside the orbit of the earth). Programs run on the Apple II microcomputer and employ high-resolution graphics to present the motions of Saturn. (Author/JN)

The acoustics of speech production allows the prediction of resonances for a given vocal tract configuration. Combining these predictions with aerodynamic theory developed for mechanical whistles makes theories about human whistling more complete. Several experiments involving human whistling are reported which support the theory and indicate new…

Fundamental principles governing nuclear explosions and their effects are discussed, including three components of a nuclear explosion (thermal radiation, shock wave, nuclear radiation). Describes how effects of these components depend on the weapon's yield, its height of burst, and distance of detonation point. Includes effects of three…

Euler's theorem for homogenous functions is useful when developing thermodynamic distinction between extensive and intensive variables of state and when deriving the Gibbs-Duhem relation. Discusses Euler's theorem and thermodynamic applications. Includes six-step instructional strategy for introducing the material to students. (Author/JN)

Presents an analog simulation of laser properties (finding time evolution of the intensity of a ruby laser pulse) which serves as the basis of a three-four hour laboratory experiment. Includes programs for solution to rate equations of a three-level laser and production of a giant pulse in a ruby laser. (Author/SK)

Describes the use of silicon diodes for low temperature thermometry in the teaching laboratory. A simple and inexpensive circuit for display of the diode forward voltage under constant current conditions is described, and its application in the evaluation of low cost silicon diodes as low temperature thermometers is presented. (SK)

Lists resources on black holes, including: (1) articles of historical interest; (2) books and journal articles on elementary expositions; (3) elementary and advanced textbooks; and (4) research articles on analytic structure of black holes, black hole dynamics, and astrophysical processes. (SK)

Summarizes information on the properties of synchrotron radiation and describes laboratories in the United States specializing in this science, including facilities at the National Bureau of Standards, University of Wisconsin, Stanford, and Brookhaven. (CS)

Background information procedures and results are provided for a diffusion (permeation) experiment using an inexpensive instrument and performed during a single three-hour laboratory period. (JN)

Surveys and analysis of physics journal publishing reveal the interests/preferences of readers, authors, publishers, and libraries. Additional areas addressed include journal prices, page charges, separates (photocopies, reprints, and others), and articles on demand. Indicates that, although practical problems exist, the "electronic journal" may…

Discusses principle themes/issues of risk assessment, using examples from the "nuclear debate." Indicates that while an objective scientific core to decisions on risks exists, this is conditioned in its interpretation by inexactness, uncertainty, and value-commitments. Considers risk assessment elements, risk quantification in real…

Examined are the world energy problem; the problems associated with coal, fission, and other energy sources; and the feasibility of solar energy and nuclear fusion. Suggested changes for the improvement of mankind's future are provided. (BT)