Presents an apparatus for demonstrating two-dimensional random motion suitable for illustrating molecular phenomena. Three specific uses are presented. (SL)

Discusses the practicality of the large scale production of electricity from solar sources utilizing current technology. The prospects are determined to economically unfeasible. (SL)

Part two of a four part series of interviews with award-winning secondary physics teachers about their courses, instruction, methods, and students. (SL)

Describes the calculation of the potential of the Earth's gravitational field strength and the energies of satellites in orbit round the Earth with a programmable pocket calculator. (SL)

Develops a path-analysis model of critical variables affecting student enrollment in secondary school physics. A test of the model utilizing state provided data of physics enrollment in New York State resulted in the rejection of the model; however, significant critical variable results were obtained. (SL)

Describes an introductory geophysics course for physics majors. (SL)

The author recommends the use of flow charting to help students understand the manipulation of algebraic formulae. He identifies some problems with flow charts and suggests an alternative method of constructing flow diagrams. (SD)

Presents a consistent approach to the introduction of the mole in teaching kinetic theory and thermodynamics of ideal and real gases. (SL)

Describes a one week secondary level physics course which includes experiments carried out in the field. (SL)

Describes a method of calculating the power applied to an electric lamp by using a calorimeter to measure the energy radiated by the lamp. (SL)

Discusses the basics of inexpensive modular synthesizers (which demonstrate various principles of sound). Topics considered include: oscillators and musical range; oscillator waveforms and characteristics; synthesizing simple musical sounds; and modulation and sweeping filter effects. Suggestions for purchasing or building synthesizer components…

Suggests using a "bed of nails" (array of nails on a board) as a resistance demonstration where steel balls pass through the lattice of nails like electrons through metal. Although weaknesses of Drude's electrical conduction model are noted, the activity is recommended since it clearly illustrates drift velocity. (DH)

Students are challenged to investigate a simple electric motor and to build their own model from a battery, wood block, clips, enameled copper wire, bare wire, and sandpaper. Through trial and error, several discoveries are made, including a substitute commutator and use of a radio to detect motor armature contact changes. (DH)

Discusses four different methods for measuring self-inductance based on the definition of inductance, the alternative definition, phase difference and LC resonance. Provides circuit diagrams and typical oscilloscope traces. (YP)

Shows how the thermodynamic condition for equilibrium in an isolated system can be derived by the application of Boltzmann's law to a simple physical system. States that this derivation could be included in an introductory course on chemical equilibrium to help prepare students for a statistical mechanical treatment presented in the curriculum.…