Describes the use of magnetic field probes interfaced to a microcomputer in measuring the magnetic field in and around a solenoidal "Slinky" spring toy carrying a current of a few amps. (JRH)

Discusses the use of a spreadsheet program to vary the parameters in multiloop circuit problems. Enables students to better understand how the elements in a multiloop circuit determine the current by allowing them to see the results of the changes immediately. (JRH)

Presents experiments that use Microcomputer Based Laboratory (MBL) techniques to enable freshmen physics students to investigate complex systems, such as nonlinear oscillators or coupled harmonic oscillators, at a level appropriate for an independent project. (JRH)

Describes simple inexpensive modifications to existing equipment that facilitate the computerization of interference and diffraction experiments done in introductory laboratory courses. (JRH)

Describes learnings originating from a simple pendulum simulation using "interactive physics" simulations. Discusses tension in the rope, acceleration of the pendulum bob, and initial displacements. (JRH)

Reports on the implementation of a relatively low-cost, versatile, and intuitive system to teach basic mechanics based on the use of a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) camera and inexpensive image-processing and analysis software. Discusses strengths and limitations of CCD imaging technologies. (JRH)

Describes an experiment to study the motion of a rocket-propelled vehicle over the entire duration of the engine burn using a video system with a frame-by-frame playback and a Sonic Ranger for ultrasonic position movements. Enables students to study the impulse-momentum principle and the effects of a time-varying force. (JRH)

Presents a procedure that students can use to determine the center of mass of a thin (two-dimensional), homogenous object experimentally, analytically, and numerically. Requires students to use three distinctly different approaches to a single problem and necessitates a combination of laboratory skills, a knowledge of fundamental calculus, and…

Presents three methods for obtaining experimental data related to acceleration of a simple pendulum. Two of the methods involve angular position measurements and the subsequent calculation of the acceleration while the third method involves a direct measurement of the acceleration. Compares these results with theoretical calculations and…

Describes a method of instruction used to provide meaningful individualized assignments to students in a large introductory physics course. (ZWH)

Describes the use of an exploratory computerized approach to introduce first-year physics students to the ramifications of Newton's third law of motion. (JRH)

Presents a method of calculating acceleration resulting from gravity using computer-controlled photogates. (ZWH)

Presented is an example of this use of spreadsheet software. The basic case is considered with an extension and suggestions for other applications. Emphasized is the use of this method at the introductory level. (CW)

Discusses making a computer-simulated rainbow using principles of physics, such as reflection and refraction. Provides BASIC program for the simulation. Appends a program illustrating the effects of dispersion of the colors. (YP)

Uses computers to aid in teaching one property of the chaos theory: sensitivity to initial conditions. Provides demonstrations that illustrate that science and physics do not and cannot have all the answers to questions asked regarding the causes of natural phenomena. (ZWH)