Suggests a method treating geometric optics using a microcomputer to do the calculations of image formation. Calculations are based on the connection between the composition of lenses and the mathematics of fractional linear equations. Logic of the analysis and an example problem are included. (JM)

Examines present and future applications of computers in high-energy physics. Areas considered include high-energy physics laboratories, accelerators, detectors, networking, off-line analysis, software guidelines, event sizes and volumes, graphics applications, event simulation, theoretical studies, and future trends. (JN)

Describes a "no-cost" apparatus designed to demonstrate rotational inertia. Also describes and evaluates a microprocessor-based instrument (Versatile Laboratory Aid) that performs a large variety of timing and data acquisition tasks encountered in introductory and advanced physics laboratories. (JN)

Reviews important science news stories reported during 1984 in "Science News" magazine. These stories are in the categories of: anthropology and paleontology; behavior; biology; chemistry; computers; mathematics; earth science; the environment; medicine; physics; science and society; space sciences and astronomy; and technology. (JN)

Plotting a polynomial over the range of real numbers when its derivative contains complex roots is discussed. The polynomials are graphed by calculating the minimums, maximums, and zeros of the function. (MNS)

Lists postulates on which the author bases his approach to large class instruction. Suggestions are given for such administrative, operational, and academic procedures as organizing handouts and class information; avoiding "busy work"; finding out about the students (personal and academic); making an assignment due every class; and providing quick…

Procedures for demonstrating rainbows in the classroom are provided. Materials required include a clear plastic box (the size of a shoebox), water, and an overhead projector. Also tells how to make a rainbow on the chalkboard using colored chalk. (JN)

Describes an apparatus which demonstrates the stability of equilibrium of multidimensional objects and helps students to understand the concept of a lever arm. Also describes an alternative to the standard black, mercury "student cell" used as a reference voltage for calibrating a slide-wire potentiometer. (JN)

Investigated relationships between visual-spatial abilities and achievement and what influence these abilities have on the high attribution rate characteristic of many introductory college-level science courses. Results, among others, using physics students (N=136) and nonscience majors (N=52), indicate that visual-spatial abilities influence…

Provided are procedures and list of materials needed to demonstrate that the pressure inside a container with a porous surface can be changed due to the rate of diffusion of low molecular weight gases. Typical results obtained are included. (JN)

Briefly considers the nature of physics laboratories and their role in the physics curriculum. Also considers three valuable outcomes of laboratory experiences: using equipment, doing real experiments, and handling phenomena. (JN)

Compares various methods of defining derived quantities, arguing for a definitional formula using base or fundamental units in a word equation, or symbol-equations with the symbols explained. Suggests that fundamental units be defined operationally or left regarded as intuitive as in the case of length and time. (JM)

Measurement of harmonic amplitude and phase response are discussed, focusing on an instrument used to demonstrate motion of a damped system when oscillating freely and motion of the same system when driven into harmonic oscillation. Includes procedures, sample results, and comparison of results to values calculated from geometry of the system. (JM)

Describes a continuous sequence of development of arithmetical and ratio reasoning capacity which very few students now attain in introductory science courses. Sequence progresses from verbal interpretation of ratio of two numbers, to arithmetical reasoning involving division, coupling arithmetical reasoning to graphical representation, and to…

Experiments which illustrate the effect of humidity on human hair and on paper are described. Also described are two ways to make a hygrometer. These methods were found in a series of British television programs (also available in the United States). Comments on the programs are included. (JN)