In this paper we analyse the behaviour of a small-scale model of a magnetic levitation system based on the Inductrack concept. Drag and lift forces acting on our prototype, moving above a continuous copper track, are studied analytically following a simple low-speed approach. The experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical…

We apply several physical ideas to determine the steady temperature distribution in a medium moving with uniform velocity between two infinite parallel plates. We compute it in the coordinate frame moving with the medium by integration over the "past" to account for the influence of an infinite set of instantaneous point sources of heat in past…

We study the turning point problem of a spherical pendulum. The special cases of the simple pendulum and the conical pendulum are noted. For simple initial conditions the solution to this problem involves the golden ratio, also called the golden section, or the golden number. This number often appears in mathematics where you least expect it. To…

The use of handheld computers in educational contexts has increased considerably in recent years and their value as a teaching tool has been confirmed by many positive experiences, particular within collaborative learning systems (Mobile Computer Supported Collaborative Learning [MCSCL]). The cost of the devices has hindered widespread use in…

Physics First--a movement to invert the traditional science course sequence to teach physics at the ninth-grade level--is gaining interest. However, there is limited literature exploring how to support teachers in successfully implementing Physics First. To address this, a professional development (PD) program supporting a cadre of teacher-leaders…

This article describes the specific methods of a regional partnership that has lasted more than twenty-five years. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has partnered with public and private schools in the southwestern portion of Illinois, and in metro St. Louis, in the Hands-On Science project, which provides instruction development for…

Discusses wave patterns on the surfaces of ripening wheat and barley crops when the wind is moderately strong. Examines the structure of the turbulence over such natural surfaces and conditions under which the crop may be damaged by the wind. (JR)

Presents an easy method to demonstrate Third-Law interactions using identical button magnets sliding along a smooth (nonmagnetic) knitting needle. Explains the gravitational and magnetic interactions in the case of horizontal and vertical positions of the needle. (JRH)

Discusses the influence of the weather on the environmental radioactivity. Presents a method to measure the radioactivity using a Geiger counter scalar and a barometer. (JRH)

Presents demonstrations that use a blowgun to illustrate scientific concepts relating to acceleration, projectile motion, Newton's Laws, and work and kinetic energy. (JRH)

Discusses a modification of and explanation for a common demonstration in which a stick and a ball dropped at the same time from the same height are shown to land at different times. (WRM)

Shows how a baseball having a built-in clock can be used for measuring ceiling height. Suggests other questions to investigate. (YP)

Describes use of the Physical Science Study Committee (PSSC) physics timer for verification of equations of motion and in measuring moment of inertia when a body is in actual motion. Diagrams illustrating experimental arrangement of apparatus for the experiments are provided. (JN)

Many general physics laboratories involve the use of springs to demonstrate Hooke's law, and much ado is made about how this can be used as a model for describing the elastic characteristics of materials at the molecular or atomic level. In recent years, the proliferation of computers, and appropriate sensors, have made it possible to demonstrate…

Analyzes more than 50 books and 14 periodicals for contributions to the history of physics. Recurring most frequently are topics in optics, ether, relativity, mechanics and atomic or nuclear physics although, historically, the works range from the 5th century B.C. to present times. (Author/CP)