Describes a method using the sun and a prism to visualize the connection between wavelength and color. (MVL)

Discusses a study at Florida State University concerning the failure level of college physics students who previously graduated from a Florida community college compared with students who had not attended a community college. Suggests reasons for the failure level. (MVL)

Describes the construction of models of two-dimensional surfaces with negative curvature that are used to illustrate differences in the triangle sum rule for the various Big Bang Theories of the universe. (JRH)

Describes a fast and simple method for measuring the magnetic force acting on a current-carrying conductor using a digital balance. Discusses the influence of current intensity and wire length on the magnetic force on the conductor. (JRH)

Presents a simple exercise for students to do in the kitchen at home to determine the latent heat of vaporization of water using typical household materials. Designed to stress understanding by sacrificing precision for simplicity. (JRH)

Presents three experiments exploring aspects of the greenhouse effect. Topics and discussion includes radiation in energy transfer, emissivity and absorptivity, the irrelevance of reflectivity, a digression on insulators and convection, climate change, and radiative energy balance. (MCO)

This paper describes the 1992 Physics Olympiad Training Camp and the students who attended it. It focuses on student comments about their interest in physics, the challenges offered by the training camp, how camp participants are selected to attend the International Physics Olympiad, and the competition process. (JDD)

Uses the context of rock climbing to discuss the science concept of friction. Presents the mathematics equations that describe the concept. Examines the physics of different rock climbing situations encountered and equipment used. A series of related problems with answers is provided. (MDH)

Describes the problem-solving behaviors of six novice subjects attempting to solve an electrostatics problem in calculus-based college physics. The level of qualitative thinking exhibited by these novices was determined. Sound procedural knowledge and problem representation were suggested as an integral part of skilled problem solving in physics.…

Introduces the method of ray tracing to analyze the refraction or reflection of real or virtual images from multiple optical devices. Discusses ray-tracing techniques for locating images using convex and concave lenses or mirrors. (MDH)

Describes a sequence of activities which explore the nature of magnetism. Presents background information and details for classroom instruction for the following activities: plotting two-dimensional magnetic fields, making the reed switch and the reed relay, building a ribbon and moving coil loudspeaker, and investigations of a toy commutatorless…

Described is the use of two types of physical sensors, a motion sensor, and a light gate, which enable the microcomputer to be used as a measuring instrument for practical experiments on motion. (KR)

The importance and value of modeling in physics teaching is discussed from two different points of view: to teach physics as it is nowadays practiced; and to take into account research into cognitive science and learning. Two kinds of modeling software are briefly described. (40 references) (Author)

Equipped with drinking straws and stirring straws, a teacher can help students understand how resistances in electric circuits combine in series and in parallel. Follow-up suggestions are provided. (ZWH)

Compares the aerodynamics involved in bird flight, movement of a tortoise, and a gliding plane. (ZWH)