Compares two approaches to strong absorption in elementary quantum mechanics; the black sphere and a model based on the continuum theory of nuclear reactions. Examines the application to proton-antiproton interactions at low momenta and concludes that the second model is the appropriate and simplest to use. (Author/GA)

States and proves some useful identities in normal ordering. The identities can be very useful in ordinary quantum-mechanicaland many-body problems. (Author/GA)

If a ball were given an initial velocity in excess of its terminal velocity, would the upward force of air resistance (a function of velocity) be greater than the downward force of gravity and thus push the ball back upwards? An answer to this question is provided. (JN)

Primary grade pupils can become fascinated with simple machines. This paper suggests that teachers have simple machines in the classroom for a unit of study. It proposes some guidelines to create a unit of study for six simple machines that include the fulcrum, inclined plane, pulley, wheel and axle, wedge, and screw. Friction, gravity, force, and…

Physicists and engineers advance the state of several arts in the design of gravitational-wave detection equipment. Provides background information and discusses the equipment (including laser interferometer), its use, and results of several experimental studies. (JN)

Applies the concepts of kinematics and conservation of mechanical energy to calculate the time needed to reach a certain point along semicircular and parabolic paths. Presents numerical calculations for the critical speed thresholds for the paths of semicircular and parabolic curves. (JRH)

Presents a demonstration, explanation, and mathematical derivation of rotational dynamics using a small plastic cylinder with a length-to-diameter ratio of about three. (MVL)

Discusses the place that Robert Hooke has in science history versus the scientific contributions he made. Examines the relationship between Hooke and his contemporary, Isaac Newton, and Hooke's claims that Newton built on his ideas without receiving Newton's recognition. (26 references) (MDH)

Describes a college physics class that uses National Guard artillery practice as a practical source for the studying of projectile motion. Provides a firing table for the shell used and the physics involved when using variables such as drag, weight, and elevation. (MVL)

Explains the motion that occurs when a particle with an initial velocity to the right is acted upon by a constant downward force. Considers what happens when the speed of the particle approaches the speed of light in particular. (WRM)

MathCad® is a very popular software tool for mathematical and statistical analysis in science and engineering. Its low cost, ease of use, extensive function library, and worksheet-like user interface distinguish it among other commercial packages. Its features are also well suited to educational process. The use of natural mathematical notation…

The Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program is a multidisciplinary program involving 43 doctoral degree-granting institutions and more than 250 partner institutions. PFF programs work to transform the way aspiring faculty members are prepared for their careers by focusing on the full range of faculty roles and responsibilities. A PFF program…

The expansion of U.S. universities after World War II gained from the arrival of immigrant scientists and graduate students, the broadening of access to universities, and the development of military research and high technology industry. Since the 1980s, however, growth of scientific research in Europe and East Asia has exceeded that of the U.S.,…

We report on the advantage of integrating teaching of biology and physics in the 7th grade as compared to the teaching physics and biology as discrete units. Experimental group (EG) had a lesson integrating knowledge of physics and biology, while control group (CG) had discrete lessons in physics and biology, referring each to their specific…

In the project laboratory, a group of students are given a well-defined task but the path to the solution is entirely left to the students. The paper reports on some basic strategies in designing successful project tasks that are based on modified problems from International Young Physicists Tournament (IYPT). In addition, an integration of…