Describes techniques in LOGO, which are applicable to A-level and above. The techniques use a dynamic modeling approach, which considers system behavior in terms of state transitions over successive short intervals. Advantages and disadvantages of using LOGO are noted. (JN)

Analysis of price discrimination (charging different prices to different customers for same product) for 89 academic journals in 6 disciplines reveals: incidence of price discrimination rose between 1974 and 1984, increase in mean institutional (library) subscription price exceeded increase in mean individual subscription price. Journal list…

Continues a discussion of magnetic fluids by providing background information on and procedures for conducting several demonstrations. Indicates that, with a little patience and ingenuity, only modest magnetic fields and about 20 ml of low-viscosity, commercial magnetite-water-based magnetic fluid are required. (JN)

Presents information on the moment of inertia of a tennis racket about its principal axes. This information (not available from conventional sources) is useful since it influences how the racket plays and how the racket feels when it is swung. In addition, measurements of motion can be easily made by undergraduate students. (JN)

Reports on the certification qualifications for biology, chemistry, and physics teachers in Ohio. All teacher preparation institutions in the state are at or above the minimum state requirement in credit hours. Data indicate that low percentages (four to five percent) of Ohio teachers lack valid certificates for their science teaching assignments.…

Good problem solvers and poor problem solvers in advanced physics (N=8) were significantly different in their ability in translating, planning, and physical reasoning, as well as in problem solving time; no differences in reliance on algebraic solutions and checking problems were noted. Implications for physics teaching are discussed. (DH)

Examines various issues related to the establishment of a core of physics studies at 16+ and 18+. Indicates that a core physics syllabus should be concerned with phenomena, theory, models, and applications and not with such topics as the use of a U tube manometer. (JN)

Describes: (1) experiments using a simple phonocardiograph; (2) radioactivity experiments involving a VELA used as a ratemeter; (3) a 25cm continuously operating Foucault pendulum; and (4) camera control of experiments. Descriptions of equipment needed are provided when applicable. (JN)

Provides descriptions of seven computer programs (indicating program name, current cost, source, RAM needed, and compatible computers). Subject areas of the programs are algebra, astronomy, heredity, physics, medicine, and logic. (JN)

Describes a college-sponsored physics competition which benefits both high school physics teachers and students. The competition (a paper/pencil examination) is open to students of all abilities and provides an opportunity for teachers to meet and exchange ideas on a yearly basis. (JN)

Presents ideas for using model trains as a teaching tool and/or minicourse in junior high school science classes. Students investigate such topics as electric motor operation, electric potential, resistance, electromagnets, transformers, switches, centripetal force, cam mechanism, circuitry and wiring techniques, and ammeters. Directions for…

An elementary physical model of cone receptor cells is explained and applied to complexities of human color vision. One-, two-, and three-receptor systems are considered, with the later shown to be the best model for the human eye. Color blindness is also discussed. (DH)

Background information (theory), apparatus used and procedures required are provided for an experiment which involved the measurement of the deviations of carbon dioxide from perfect gas behavior by means of pressure/volume (pV) measurements at pressures of up to 20 atmospheres at room temperature. (JN)

An examination of methodological referencing patterns for actual physics, engineering, and sociology literature for the year 1983, using a Dunn planned comparison approach, indicates that physics differs from both engineering and sociology, while no difference was found between engineering and sociology. References are given in each sample…

Describes (1) a tri-color light-emitting diode (LED) and (2) modification of a demonstration using a dollar bill held between two soft drink bottles, one inverted upon another mouth-to-mouth. The modification consists of filling the bottles with water to increase their mass. (JN)