The author presents the argument that the past few years, in terms of new discoveries, insights, and questions raised, have been among the most productive in the history of physics. Selected for discussion are some of the most important new developments in physics research. (Author/SA)

Describes activities appropriate for involving middle school students as active participants in the learning process. Topics discussed include archaeology, bulletin boards, dramatizations, physics experiments using the human body, oceanography, and ecology. (CS)

Described are graphic computer simulations of laboratory experiments in modern physics developed for student use prior to each laboratory and which replace pre-lab briefing. Experimental simulation is intended to familiarize the students with the experiment, and to allow the students to try a larger number of "experimental" combinations of…

Described is the use of the Doppler Effect with microwaves in the measurement of the acceleration due to gravity of falling objects. The experiments described add to the repertoire of quantitative student microwave experiments. (Author/DS)

A magnetic multipole apparatus suitable for the physics teaching laboratory is described. The apparatus enables the student to measure the magnetic field configuration of a single large coil, and of systems of one or more small coils. (Author/DS)

A technique is presented for producing holograms using equipment which is already in the possesion of the majority of college physics departments, which includes a slightly modified Michelson interferometer, a helium-neon laser, and a long focal-length lens. Production of high quality holograms has been achieved by inexperienced undergraduates…

Described is a laboratory experiment in measurement of electrostatic potentials to help students gain an idea of potentials, which will provide a basis for deeper understanding of electricity and magnetism. The theoretical potential in this report is derived by taking into account the boundary of the actual experimental setup. (Author/DS)

This article describes an introductory physics laboratory program which teaches three skills: (1) the ability to make estimates and order-of-magnitude calculations, and to use these to check experimental work, (2) the ability to use qualitative and quantitative statistics, and (3) the ability to describe an experiment in one's own words.…

Outlines the contributions of J. H. Jeans to the laws of radiation and explains the interactions of Jeans with Rayleigh and Lorentz. (GS)

Discusses kinematics of the planetary alignment in nature and related results. Describes a model of planetary alignments to beginning astronomy students. The model is to explain Jupiter's deviation from a circular orbit. (SK)

Topological ideas can be used to predict a variety of textures and defects in condensed matter systems under certain conditions. This article describes one means of creating and observing textures in liquid crystals which exhibit a rich variety of such textures. The results of these observations are presented. (Author/SK)

Discussed is the lack of a scientific foundation and scientific evidence favoring astrology. Included are several research studies conducted to examine astrological tenets which yield generally negative results. (Author/DS)

Describes a circuit which allows vectors and combinations of vectors to be illustrated by means of bright segments appearing on a c.r.o. screen. Explains how to demonstrate dendritic crystalization with cyclohexanol. Presents a circuit which, with the help of a signal generator and an oscilloscope, facilitates the understanding of the electrical…

Describes simple activities to be used to help children to recognize the importance of earth's gravitation. Introductory mechanics involving acceleration, force, mass and weight are discussed. (HM)

Criteria used in awarding physics honors degrees are examined including the use of "total grade," combining written examinations, laboratory work, and other course work. Variations in practice are shown to exist and doubts have arisen about the validity of the average degree examination as the basis for professional standing. (JMF)