Describes the renormalization group theory of second-order phase transitions suitable for undergraduate statistical physics. (Author/GA)

Demonstrates erroneous results obtained if change in a vector under parallel transport about a closed path in Riemannian spacetime is made in a complete circuit rather than just half a circuit. (Author/SL)

Discusses how the fast Fourier transform can be used as a teaching tool to introduce spectral analysis of sampled data by interactive minicomputer experiments. (MLH)

Discusses a curriculum sequence, comprising a one-year noncalculus physics course followed by an optional one-semester calculus physics course, that satisfies the needs of both science and nonscience students at a two-year college. (MLH)

Introductory physics students were taught the skill of acquiring the abilities to apply quantitative relations in problem solving, from a text description of those relations. This enhanced the students' capacities for acquiring this ability from a subsequently presented text description of new relations. (BW)

Describes the operating characteristics and cost of chart recorders available in Great Britain. (SL)

Discusses a number of possible explanations for the Christmas Star as described in the Bible. (SL)

Proposes a method for solving a diffusion equation by a random-walk approximation technique which utilizes the complex intergration method of steepest descent. (SL)

Reviews the debate between physicists Compton and Millikan over cosmic radiation in the 1930's and the resultant social repercussions against science. (SL)

A problem illustrating how physics and mathematics complement one another when analyzing problems of the physical world is described. (JT)

Described is a novel approach to the teaching of projectile motion of sixth form level. Students are asked to use an analogue circuit to observe projectile motion and to graph the experimental results. Using knowledge of basic dynamics, students are asked to explain the shape of the curves theoretically. (Author/MA)

This article is based on the results of an investigation of the conceptual difficulties experienced by Scottish secondary students studying the topic of chemical equilibrium. Rather than dropping thermodynamics from the curriculum, it is suggested that a new teaching approach is indicated. (Author/MA)

Presents an evolutionary scheme for the physical, chemical, and biological origins of life. The molecular factor is the field of analysis. The need for a reconciliation of science and philosophy is indicated. Extensive references are given. (MA)

Biometeorology is the study of the relations between meteorological factors, physico-chemical systems and living organisms, and the indirect effects of the physical, chemical, and physico-chemical environments of the earth's atmosphere and of similar extraterrestrial space upon physico-chemical systems and living organisms. This article discusses…

Derives the general Doppler formula in a nonstatic universe using assumptions of special relativity, homogeneity and isotropy of the universe. Examples of applications to physical cosmology are given. (SL)