Shows that, as a consequence of two feasible assumptions and when due attention is given to the definition of charge and the fields E and B, the lowest-order equations that these two fields must satisfy are Maxwell's equations. (Author/GA)

Shows how Maxwell's equations can be obtained by starting with a relatively simple pseudoscalar and scalar potential employing only the Lorentz transformation for a four vector (or pseudovector). (GA)

Describes an undergraduate experiment of research potential. The experiment cconsists of measuring the time of contact of a metal rod bouncing on a steel base as a function of the velocity of impact, length, diameter, and material of the rod. (GA)

A Hamiltonian for the time-dependent damped and forced harmonic oscillator is derived. A simple time-dependent linear canonical transformation transforms the Hamiltonian to one whose solution is readily obtained. The wave function for the corresponding quantum mechanical problem is given. (Author/GA)

Discusses the nature of Laplace transform techniques and explains an alternative to them: the Widder's real inversion. To illustrate the power of this new technique, it is applied to a difficult inversion: the problem of Landau damping. (GA)

Describes an experiment to demonstrate the influence of a magnetic field on the behavior of a single Langmuir probe. The experiment introduces the student to magnetically supported plasma and particle behavior in a magnetic field. (GA)

Explains that the quantal state describes a statistical ensemble of similar systems identically prepared, and is not to be identified with any single system. Shows how to determine empirically the general quantum state by calculations involving only the measured mean values of a set of observables called a "Quorum." (Author/GA)

Discusses the planning and implementation of a laboratory course in which students carried out experimental measurements, reduced data, conducted literature surveys, and presented their results in the form of original research papers. (Author/MLH)

Studies the relationship between Eulerian and Lagrangian coordinate systems with the help of computer plots of variables such as density and particle displacement. Gives examples which illustrate the differences in the shape of a traveling wave as seen by observers in the two systems. (Author/GA)

Describes an experiment which studies the motion of an irregular Lucite glider on an air table and demonstrates the dynamic properties of the center of mass. (Author/GA)

The objectives and methods of a free undergraduate laboratory are set forth. The main features are a close connection between the students and the research groups, a large amount of student freedom and responsibility, and no grading of the students. (Author/TS)

Discusses the historical rod contraction-block retardation (RC-CR) ether theory to illustrate its relationship to the special theory of relativity and the possibility of experimental differences between them. Indicates that the RC-CR theory is worthy of the attention of both physicists and science philosophers. (CC)

Reports one student's reaction to an innovative course that presents concepts with a minimal amount of math, removes much scientific jargon, provides a historical perspective, and allows optional student involvement in research. (GS)