Describes a new method and apparatus (consisting of a steel sheet, electromagnet, base, balls, and carbon paper) used to perform mechanics experiments which, until now, required use of an air table. Also compares the apparatus to an air table, explores its range of uses, and examines rotational dynamics. (DH)

Microcomputer-based laboratories (MBLs) refer to a laboratory where a microcomputer gathers and displays data directly from the environment. Program listings for a response timer (using game paddles) to illustrate the nature of MBLs are presented. (JN)

Describes a series of short-term modular experiments which focus on community structure (standing crop biomass) and function (system energy flow). One exercise examines decomposers while another shows energy use by individuals. Equipment needed, procedures used, and results obtained are included. (Author/DH)

Describes an apparatus for viewing one- and two-dimensional collisions and coupled pendulums on an overhead projector. Suggested demonstrations for the two-dimensional colliding balls and for the two-dimensional coupled pendulums are provided. (JN)

Describes (in the form of a hypothetical discussion between teacher and student) several demonstrations using the fine-beam cathode-ray tube. One is a demonstration of how a magnetic field can help to initiate and propagate a fine beam. (JN)

Described is a method of converting vacuum-tube operated Heath analog computers (model ES-201) to linear integrated-circuits. (SL)

While the new movement in the teaching of physics--the study of the physics of daily life--is the keynote of the recent text-books, yet the laboratory manuals still adhere to the old method, leaving the presentation of material from everyday life to the text-book alone. It is the authors' belief that the manual as well as the text-book should be…

Describes the construction of a simple apparatus capable of converting solar energy into mechanical energy. Construction of the engine'' is inexpensive, and should stimulate student interest in the idea of producing power directly from the sun. (JR)

Describes the application of an inexpensive relaxation oscillator circuit which uses a thermistor or a cadmium-sulfide photocell to affect the rate of an audio pulse output. It is especially well suited for qualitative and quantitative measurement of heat or light in classroom situations because of its clearly audible output. (Author/JR)

Discusses the use of a modified electron spin resonance apparatus to demonstrate some features of the expression for the transition probability per second between two energy levels. Applications to the third year laboratory program are suggested. (CC)

Directions are given for the construction of mazes suitable for use in the classroom. The animal maze may be used to investigate small animal behavior, and the finger maze provides students with the opportunity to experience similar frustrations to those encountered by animals in the network of passages. (JR)