A magnetic multipole apparatus suitable for the physics teaching laboratory is described. The apparatus enables the student to measure the magnetic field configuration of a single large coil, and of systems of one or more small coils. (Author/DS)

A technique is presented for producing holograms using equipment which is already in the possesion of the majority of college physics departments, which includes a slightly modified Michelson interferometer, a helium-neon laser, and a long focal-length lens. Production of high quality holograms has been achieved by inexperienced undergraduates…

Described is a laboratory experiment in measurement of electrostatic potentials to help students gain an idea of potentials, which will provide a basis for deeper understanding of electricity and magnetism. The theoretical potential in this report is derived by taking into account the boundary of the actual experimental setup. (Author/DS)

This article describes an introductory physics laboratory program which teaches three skills: (1) the ability to make estimates and order-of-magnitude calculations, and to use these to check experimental work, (2) the ability to use qualitative and quantitative statistics, and (3) the ability to describe an experiment in one's own words.…

Outlines the contributions of J. H. Jeans to the laws of radiation and explains the interactions of Jeans with Rayleigh and Lorentz. (GS)

Discusses kinematics of the planetary alignment in nature and related results. Describes a model of planetary alignments to beginning astronomy students. The model is to explain Jupiter's deviation from a circular orbit. (SK)

Topological ideas can be used to predict a variety of textures and defects in condensed matter systems under certain conditions. This article describes one means of creating and observing textures in liquid crystals which exhibit a rich variety of such textures. The results of these observations are presented. (Author/SK)

Discussed is the lack of a scientific foundation and scientific evidence favoring astrology. Included are several research studies conducted to examine astrological tenets which yield generally negative results. (Author/DS)

Describes a circuit which allows vectors and combinations of vectors to be illustrated by means of bright segments appearing on a c.r.o. screen. Explains how to demonstrate dendritic crystalization with cyclohexanol. Presents a circuit which, with the help of a signal generator and an oscilloscope, facilitates the understanding of the electrical…

Describes simple activities to be used to help children to recognize the importance of earth's gravitation. Introductory mechanics involving acceleration, force, mass and weight are discussed. (HM)

Criteria used in awarding physics honors degrees are examined including the use of "total grade," combining written examinations, laboratory work, and other course work. Variations in practice are shown to exist and doubts have arisen about the validity of the average degree examination as the basis for professional standing. (JMF)

Reviewed is a brief history of electronics technology, from the early beginnings of vacuum devices to development of solid state devices, silicon fabrication in the use of transistors, and integrated circuits. Educational needs at the university or polytechnic level are discussed. (CS)

Presents a classical demonstration of polarization for high school students. The initial state of this model, which demonstrates the important concepts of the optical and quantum problems, was developed during the 1973 summer program on lecture demonstration at the U.S. Naval Academy. (HM)

Describes briefly three experiments, which are presented by three physics teachers to share their ideas with other teachers and readers. These experiments are: (1) a simple hazemeter for window pollution assessment; (2) the speed of light; and (3) the ball-bearing electric motor. (HM)

Discusses the present status and future prospects of laser-driven fusion. Current research (which is classified under three main headings: laser-matter interaction processes, compression, and laser development) is also presented. (HM)