Presents part two of an article that discusses the opinions of the public and scientists regarding Einstein and his theory of relativity during the years after 1919. (HM)

Questions and substantiates that both inductive and deductive components of logical reasoning contribute to achievement in an introductory college physics course, with deductive logical abilities contributing more to achievement. Performance on tests requiring both inductive and deductive logical reasoning ability correlated significantly with…

Presents two derivations of the fundamental laser linewidth that have been used successfully in introductory physics courses. The cause of the finite linewidth is identified with phase fluctuations in the electric field due to spontaneous emissions. A factor of 2 discrepancy between the energy and field analysis is explained. (Author/GA)

The use of biological examples in teaching applications of the analog computer is discussed and several examples from mathematical ecology, enzyme kinetics, and tracer dynamics are described. (Author/GA)

Describes two laboratory courses in electronics designed for nonscience students. The courses require no prerequisites in physics or in mathematics, and emphasis is put on the laboratory aspect of electronics, such as building and testing various electronic circuits. (GA)

Reports on the effectiveness of a water model in illustrating the concept of voltage to secondary school students. Results suggest that the model does not enhance understanding of concepts related to voltage. (Author/SA)

Shows that upon incorporating an irreversible step into an otherwise reversible Carnot Cyclic process there results a diminution of thermodynamic efficiency and a simultaneous augmentation of the entropy of the universe. (Author/HM)

Describes a two-hour physics laboratory experiment modeling the phenomena of eclipsing binary stars developed by the Air Force Academy as part of a week-long laboratory-oriented experience for visiting high school students. (BT)

Described is a three-week unit on stellar evolution and cosmology taught as part of a one-year introductory high school physics course for seniors. Prerequisite topics necessary for a student's understanding of the material and topics covered during the unit are presented. (BT)

Describes a simple demonstration that illustrates the nature of isotropic substances by tearing newsprint, magazines, and wrapping paper. (BT)

This article describes the distribution of mass in a hand-held object as a fundamental but unrecognized contributor to the sensation one receives from the object. Experiments producing fractions for human sensitivity are given. (SA)

Discusses electric and magnetic forces between parallel-wire conductors and derives, in a simple fashion, order of magnitude estimates of the ratio of the likely electrostatic and electromagnetic forces for a simple parallel-wire balance. (Author/HM)

Presented are two problem exercises involving rapid compression and expansion of ideal gases which illustrate the first and second laws of thermodynamics. The first problem involves the conversion of gravitational energy into heat through mechanical work. The second involves the mutual interaction of two gases through an adiabatic piston. (BT)

Describes a simple application of the seismic refraction method, using a two layer system, and extending it to a three layer system. (GA)

Examines the physical bases for the appearance of the starfield from a moving reference frame. Concludes with a sequence of computer-generated figures to show the appearance of Earth's starfield at various velocities and that a "starbow" does not exist. (Author/GA)