Discusses why interference effects cannot be seen with a thick film, starting with a review of the origin of interference patterns in thin films. Considers properties of materials in films, properties of the light source, and the nature of light. (JN)

Telecom link is a structured design exercise concerned with building a telecommunications link between London and Amsterdam. Designed for A-level physics, the simulation requires a minimum of 10 hours. Aims of the exercise, design specifications and technical aspects, and summaries of four possible technologies used in the simulation are…

Discusses the conversion of moderately-used physics journals from hard copy to roll microfilm at the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis, and reports the results of monitoring the use of filmed titles. Two references are listed. (CHC)

Reports results of a survey of postsecondary students that examines the main difficulties encountered in using elementary algebra in the sciences. (CS)

Describes an instructional strategy to convey the elements of trigonometry to introductory physics students. (SK)

Describes the discovery, physical properties, and future applications of liquid crystals. (SK)

Develops simple numerical estimates to quantify a variety of energy economics issues, including among others, a modified Verhulst equation (considers effect of finite resources on petroleum) for supply/demand economics and a phenomenological model for market penetration also presents an analysis of economic returns of an energy conservation…

Enumerates characteristics of the physics curriculum at a high school designed for gifted students in science. Details areas of concern, observed changes, and particular management strategies in teaching physics to a very large number of students. (CS)

Describes two simple physics experiments demonstrating the spin on baseballs or golfballs and the observed effects of falling coins when released together. (CS)

Presents a description of the curricula in physics at 124 universities, colleges, and polytechnical institutes in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. General information is provided on examination requirements for admission and procedures for making application to the schools. (SA)

Presents a description of the curricula in physics at 16 universities, colleges, and polytechnical institutes in Scotland. The entry requirements are summarized and procedures for making application are given. (SA)

Describes the function of the Institute of Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Its establishment and the interests of some of the researchers there, are discussed. (SA)

An overhead projector, projection screen, and clear tungsten Filament light bulb operated through a dimmer or variac switch are used to demonstrate the fact that black appearance of sunspots is due only to contrast and that sunspots are bright. (SK)

Describes a 3.33-cm wavelength (9 GHz) microwave system that achieves a high overall signal sensitivity and a well-collimated beam with moderate-size equipment. The system has been used to develop microwave versions of the Michelson interferometer, Bragg reflector, Brewster's law and total internal reflection, and Young's interference experiment.…

Describes experiments and apparatus to: (1) allow astronomy students to test resolution limit of their eyes at several wavelengths; (2) analyze laser mode phases by interferometry; (3) demonstrate a Cartesian diver with an overhead projector; and (4) generate conical beams of light for smoke-chamber demonstrations. (JN)