Discusses concerns regarding the assessment of scientific investigations in the National Curriculum. Presents observations and assessment advice and guidance. (JRH)

Presents experiments that use the Mattel's Hot Wheels Top Speed toy set to show that work is a measure of energy transferred to or from a system. (JRH)

Describes problems that are presented in the form of experiments. The philosophy, method of solution, and several examples of mechanics experiment problems are described. (LZ)

This paper extends discussion of Cushing's contribution to Bohm's deterministic interpretation of quantum mechanics, which raises the question of whether self-understanding is at issue in physical science as it is in social science. Addresses ideas by Bevilacqua and Giannetto about the use of historical texts and the primacy of experiment. (LZ)

Discusses the use of 40 kHz ultrasonic transducers to study wave phenomena. Determines that the resulting wavelength of 9 mm allows acoustic experiments to be performed on a tabletop. Includes transducer characteristics and activities on speed of sound, reflection, double- and single-slit diffraction, standing waves, acoustical zone plate, and…

This photosynthesis exercise is intended for introductory college biology or botany courses. It is based on the principle that a closed suspension of algal cells may be expected to produce more dissolved oxygen with a greater photon fluence rate, but within limits of the photosynthetic capacity of the system. Describes materials and methods. (LZ)

Describes the use of geiger counters for scientific investigations and experiments. Presents information about background radiation, its sources and detection. Describes how geiger counters work and other methods of radiation detection. Provides purchasing information for geiger counters, related computer software and equipment. (MCO)

Authors discuss "the scientific method" and assert that laboratory scientists ask questions but seldom state formal hypotheses to be answered by controlled experiments. Authors suggest that experimental results should not be viewed as fact, and students should not be required to memorize the steps of the scientific method. (PR)

Presents an experiment based on the principles of rectilinear motion of light operating in a pinhole camera that projects the image of an illuminated object through a small hole in a sheet to an image screen. (MDH)

Presents two demonstrations to compare the differences between the screen reproductions of a bulb when using a converging lens and a pinhole and how that reproduction image reaches the observer's eye from multiple vantage points. (MDH)

Reviews diverse types of computer programing languages and provides examples of representative programs from the most significant languages in use. Matches programing languages most suitable for various types of experimental applications for the amateur scientist. (JJK)

Describes a theoretical development to explain the shadow patterns of an object exposed to an extended light source while held at varying distances from a screen. The theoretical model is found to be accurate in comparison with experimental results. (MDH)

Describes an experiment used to demonstrate basic physics concepts regarding acoustic waves used by oceanographers to obtain seabed profiles. (ZWH)

Equipped with a plastic film can and a pin, students can gain a better understanding of chromatic aberrations and inner eye phenomena, light, lenses, pinholes, shadows, and ray diagrams. (ZWH)