Describes an experiment for the measurement of the reflectances of dielectric surface. The experiment is analyzed in terms of the Stokes parameters and the Mueller calculus, and Malus law is derived. The experiment also provides an introduction to the properties of real linear polarizers. (Author/GA)

Describes an experiment in which a point source of light, when viewed through a cylindrical tube having reflecting inner walls, appears as a series of sharply defined rings, due to the multiple reflections from the inner walls of the tube. ( GA)

Information concerning an undergraduate level experiment on the effects of surface forces is provided. (CP)

Explains how general physics textbooks introduce fundamental concepts on the basis of controversial philosophical outlooks, without indicating this either to the student or the instructor. Examines critically the philosophical approaches in a number of textbooks from a dialectical materialist viewpoint. (Author/GA)

Reviews the long term implications of photosynthesis as a source of solar energy and food. (SL)

Reviews major fuel sources utilized since the mid-1800's and projects energy needs and fuel reserves up to the year 2000 for the United Kingdom. (SL)

Fifty-nine secondary school physics students were assigned to treatment groups: (1) Project Physics units, (2) Project Physics and verbal learning unit, and (3) a training program in scientific inquiry. Posttest results revealed that, on most aspects of a science inquiry test, treatments 2 and 3 had significantly greater effect on achievement than…

Describes the apparatus and procedures for constructing simple AM radio circuits with a minimum of electronic components. (SL)

Describes the apparatus and procedures for conducting a simple speed of light experiment in an average laboratory using a laser source, a rotating mirror, and an oscilloscope. (SL)

Reviews research which has found variations in the decay rate for various types of radioactive decay. (SL)

A secondary school teacher presents his teaching methodology concerning the kinetic theory of gases and gas laws. (CP)

Discusses the impact of radioactive waste management system on social and political development. The article also presents (1) types of information necessary to estimate the costs and consequences of radioactive waste management; and (2) an index of radioactive hazards to improve the basis for policy decisions. (HM)

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are described and three classroom experiments are given, one to prove the, low power requirements and efficiency of LEDs, an LED on-off detector circuit, and the third an LED photoelectric smoke detector. (BB)

Describes a one quarter introductory college physics course for nonscience majors which concentrates upon energy, energy systems, and relevant practical situations exemplifying energy laws. Results indicate the course is also suitable as a preparatory course for preprofessional students. (SL)

Reports research results of formal versus informal instruction effects on retention. Subjects were 70 undergraduates in first year physics (one control, one informal class, one formal class). A test conducted seven weeks after course completion showed significantly higher retention by the informal group. (SL)