Provides guidelines for simple acceleration experiments with string and attached weights as a means to stimulate the reticular activating system (RAS) of the human brain. Several methods (discrepant events, curiosity, choices, and doubt) are suggested for promoting RAS high-level thought. String drop experiments provide concrete experiences with…

Discusses various activities using a ripple tank. Offers practical suggestions (not mentioned in standard textbooks) for achieving a clear, steady quality of waves with the instrument. (JN)

Discusses a computer simulation which: (1) describes an experiment investigating F=m/a; (2) generates data; (3) allows students to see the data; and (4) generates the equation with a least-squares fit. (JN)

Describes a quantum-mechanical theory using a density matrix for electrical conductivity in the presence of a magnetic field. (MLH)

Discussed is a Doppler shift laboratory experiment for an introductory college physics course. Ultrasonic transducers and a digital phase detector circuit "black box" are used to overcome room noise and "standing waves" and to produce an observable frequency shift. (SL)

Discusses a 2-semester-hour experimental physics course utilizing a 0.5 MeV Van de Graaff accelerator. The course requires the completion of six or seven laboratory projects including complete written reports, and theory is emphasized only to the extent needed to understand the projects. (MLH)

Described and evaluated is a new wave form analyzer and an electrolysis apparatus. (SL)

A survey of pre/post test data using the Halloun-Hestenes Mechanics Diagnostic test or more recent Force Concept Inventory is reported for 62 introductory physics courses enrolling a total number of students N=6542. A consistent analysis over diverse student populations in high schools, colleges, and universities is obtained if a rough measure of…

The information provided in this booklet is meant to give the necessary background information so that the science of black holes can be taught confidently to elementary students. The featured activities can be used to engage and excite students about the topic of black holes in different disciplines and in a number of ways. Activities include:…

This book aims to develop an understanding of basic physics concepts among school teachers in grades 3-8. The concepts covered in this book include force, motion, gravity, and circular motion without intimidating detailed units and formulas. Chapters include: (1) "Newton's First One"; (2) "In Which We Describe Motion and Then Change…

This publication presents a science activity and instructional information on mechanics of granular materials, interparticle friction and geometric interlocking between particles which is a fundamental concept in many fields like earthquakes. The activity described in this document focuses on the principal strength of granular materials,…

This collection of activities is designed to show how TI-Interactive[TM] and Calculator-based Laboratories (CBL) can be used to explore topics in high school science. The activities address such topics as specific heat, Boyle's Law, Newton's Law of Cooling, and Antarctic Ozone Levels. Teaching notes and calculator instructions are included as are…

Discusses physical phenomena which can be demonstrated by using a coffee cup, involving the short-range field, alpha-particle scattering, standing waves, and Bohr's closed electron orbits. Indicates that observation of the physics of the classroom in everyday objects can attract student interest in physics learning. (CC)

Discusses the meaning of such terms as elastic modulus and elastic collision in physics, and indicates the inconsistency of using these terms through a historical and theoretical analysis. (CC)