Describes methods used to investigate the working of 3-D glasses available with comic books. Reports that the glasses are produced using methods of binary optics and that a prism effect, as well as diffraction grating, is incorporated in the design. (JRH)

Presents a method to calculate the amount of high-level radioactive waste by taking into consideration the following factors: the fission process that yields the waste, identification of the waste, the energy required to run a 1-GWe plant for one year, and the uranium mass required to produce that energy. Briefly discusses waste disposal and…

Explains the theory behind the working of Scotchlite, a retrodirective material used for coating automotive license plates, and the Ensure Imaging System that allows law enforcement officers to verify the authenticity of the plate. (JRH)

Presents activities to determine whether it is better to test dry cells with an ammeter than with a voltmeter and how best to test alkaline batteries. Discusses classification of disposable testers as instruments. Concludes that a laboratory voltmeter gives a good indication of the condition of an alkaline cell while carbon batteries are best…

Describes the construction of a new lighting system that uses a sulfur light source no bigger than a golf ball that emits enough light for an entire large room. Discusses the theory behind the system. (JRH)

Reviews the idea of output resistance and then applies it to a 74XX series logic chip. (JRH)

Poses an explanation for the formation of ice pillars and volcanic cinders on Mount Haleakala in Hawaii. (ZWH)

Reported is a study of cold fusion in which trace amounts of helium, possible evidence of an actual fusion reaction, were found. Research methodology is detailed. The controversy over the validity of experimental results with cold fusion are reviewed. (CW)

The introduction of the quantum standards of resistance and voltage, based on the Quantum Hall Effect (QHE) and the Josephson Effect, can be used to establish highly reproducible and uniform representations of the ohm and volt worldwide. Discussed are the QHE and the Josephson Effect. (KR)

A miniature tractor pull was developed as a high school activity, enabling students to assess a tractor's pulling capabilities and determine subsequent horsepower. The activity takes the textbook concept of horsepower and makes it come alive. (JOW)

Describes methods to observe diffraction effects without special equipment. Discusses the theory behind the different methods and associated problems. (JRH)

Discusses issues related to perpetual population growth. Argues that if we believe that there are no limits to growth, we will have to abandon the concept of a spherical Earth which puts limits to growth. (JRH)

Describes an experiment that involves measuring the intensity of laser light passed by a linear polarizer. Discusses polarization effects, orthogonal polarizations, instrumentation, and further experiments. (JRH)

Examines 53 collaborations in physics and related sciences with two unexpected findings: (1) trust is no higher in projects formed through pre-existing relationships than those without such ties; and (2) there is no relationship between trust and performance. Concludes that more important than trust for an understanding of large scientific…

Suggests that the motivation for Hungarian scientist Lorand Eotvos' research into gravitation was a desire to popularize university education and science. (MM)