Describes a learning project in analytical chemistry in which students are required to select instruments from the manufacturers' literature that would be suitable for a given analytical problem. Several examples are given. (SA)

Surveys the state of commerical development of analytical instrumentation as reflected by the Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy. Includes optical spectroscopy, liquid chromatography, magnetic spectrometers, and x-ray. (Author/MA)

Discusses the study of interference patterns with Michelson's interferometer using a laser beam rather than a sodium arc as a light source. (MLH)

Presents four short articles on: a power supply for the measurement of the charge-to-mass ratio of the electron; a modified centripetal force apparatus; a black box electronic unknown for the scientific instruments laboratory; and a simple scaling model for biological systems. (MLH)

Evaluates Thornton's modular electronics system for use in the general physics laboratory. Includes the Thornton pre-set counter-adapter, decade counter, and amplifier-power supply. (MLH)

Describes the mechanism of bicycle computers functioning as speedometers and timers. Discusses why the computers do not display the continuously changing readings and show the correct values at higher speeds. (YP)

Describes the theory and procedures of four electrostatic experiments, including sources of charge, charged bodies, dipoles, and levitation. (YP)

Describes an experiment producing a visible spectrum with inexpensive equipment available in the physics classroom. Discusses some related equations, apparatus settings, and instructional methods. (YP)

Describes the construction and operation of an apparatus used to study the optical properties of solids using reflection. (JRH)

Describes a method for making a Wilberforce pendulum in which a mass at the end of a spring can vibrate up and down and also rotate about an axis collinear with the spring. Cost of production is around $15. (MVL)

Describes an inexpensive fog machine that is useful for photography and laser demonstrations. The apparatus uses liquid nitrogen to chill steam to make a fine mist safe for precision optics. The device can be made for around $50. (MVL)

Provides a method for making brighter ray-tracing techniques for optics demonstrations. Uses common optical equipment and no longer needs the commercial ray box. (MVL)

Discusses the properties and application of three light-to-voltage optical sensors. The sensors have been used for sensing diffraction patterns, the inverse-square law, and as a fringe counter with an interferometer. (MVL)