Reviews the usage of Genecon, a hand-operated generator, in science laboratory experiments, such as the relationship between motor and generator effects, the system's efficiency, Joule heating, and conversion of mechanical energy into electrical potential energy. Provides the address for purchasing the Genecon and accessories. (YP)

Presents two views about lenses and optics in attempt to clarify a story written by Carolyn Hermann, "Through the Magnifying Glass." Cites two references for additional reading on students' optics difficulties. (RT)

Studies time intervals in a list of critical ideas in physics. Infers that the rate of growth of ideas has been proportional to the totality of known ideas multiplied by the totality of people in the world. Indicates that the rate of discovery in physics has been decreasing. (CW)

The University of Alabama Summer Physics Teachers Institute is a cooperative program of the university's College of Education and College of Arts and Sciences for noncertified physics teachers. The program features observation of master teachers, seminars with visiting scholars, follow-up evaluation by participants, state funding, and recognition…

Discusses the uses of thermistors in teaching electronics and semiconductors. Describes how to experimentally measure and graph the characteristics of a thermistor. Suggests one possible approach to understand the shapes of the characteristics. (CW)

Describes: (1) the structure of a data transmission source, carrier, and receiver; (2) a quantitative measure for the amount of data, followed by some quantitative examples of data transmission processes; (3) the concept of data current; (4) data containers; and (5) how this information can be used to structure physics courses. (JN)

Describes a simple three-dimensional model of Halley's Comet orbit (which is much more informative than a two-dimensional drawing) to illustrate spatial relationships and visualize how the comet moves relative to the earth. Instructions for model assembly are given along with a template which can be photocopied and glued to cardboard. (JN)

A number of alternative frameworks used by 84 students (ages 12-16) in interpreting phenomena concerned with fluid pressure were identified during interviews with these students. Methodology employed, tasks used to obtain data, an analysis of the results, and implications for physics teaching are included. (JN)

Compared performance in A-level science examinations of students who took an integrated science course (SCISP) with students who studied the separate subjects of physics, chemistry, and biology to 0-level standard. Results show no significant differences between the performance of the two groups. (JN)

Discusses the velocity of an orbiting satellite. Knowledge of the kinematics of falling objects is the only prerequisite for understanding the concepts considered. (DH)

Presents a historical overview of developments in ionospheric physics and examines relationships between federal funding and knowledge growth in this field. Summarizes the views of ionsphere researchers on funding, the role of funding program managers, and the nature of funding agencies. Reviews advancements related to entrepreneurs and resources…

Sixth graders built working "robots" (or grasping bars) for remote control use during a unit on simple mechanics. Steps for making a robot are presented, including: cutting the wood, drilling and nailing, assembling the jaws, and making them work. The "jaws," used to pick up objects, illustrate principles of levers. (DH)

Presents abstracts of selected papers dealing with: (1) enhancing computer skills of Brazilian science teachers; (2) course integration; (3) evaluating student performance using microcomputers; (4) a computer-assisted reading and mathematics program; (5) an interactive computer graphics system for teaching geometry, and (6) computer dialogs for…

Describes a laboratory exercise that introduces physics students to graphing. Presents the program format and sample output of a computer simulation of an experiment which tests the effects of sound intensity on the crawling speed of a snail. Provides students with practice in making exponential or logarithmic graphs. (ML)

Proposes an analog circuit for use in sedimentation analysis of finely divided solid materials. Discusses a method of particle size distribution analysis and provides schematics of the circuit with list of components as well as a discussion about the operation of the circuit. (JM)