Describes an alternate method of demonstrating thin film interference fringes with a laser by using a microscope slide glass cover. (MKR)

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 an explanation of how tubeless tires support the weight of an automobile with reference to the use of free body diagrams in physics. Presents a second activity in which an inexpensive laser pointer is used to obtain diffraction photographs. Offers project ideas for students. (ZWH)

Presents a quick, convenient method to determine the index of refraction as well as a unique application of the laser. (ZWH)

Describes a laser refractometry experiment to estimate the refractive index of various liquids. (YDS)

Describes a demonstration technique for showing multiple-slit interference patterns with the use of a Fabry-Perot etalon and a laser beam. A simple derivation of the analytical expression for such fringes is presented. (Author/CP)

Investigates quantitatively the diffractions of light by a U.S. penny and an aperture of the same size. Differences noted between the theory and measurements are discussed, with probable causes indicated. (Author/CP)

This is a textbook of Fourier optics for the classroom or self-study. Major topics included in the 38 chapters are: Huygens' principle and Fourier transforms; image formation; optical coherence theory; coherent imaging; image analysis; coherent noise; interferometry; holography; communication theory techniques; analog optical computing; phase…

Summarizes the historical development of lasers, involving basic concepts in physics, applied technology, advanced experimental techniques, and human interactions. Indicates that the potential for invention of the laser had been with us at least 30 years before the event actually occurred. (CC)

In this simple experiment for an undergraduate laboratory a laser beam is passed through the mixing zone of two liquids with different refractive indices. The spatial variation of the refractive index, at different times during the mixing, can be determined from the observed deflection of the beam. (Author)

Describes an experiment for recording holograms using a minimum of costly apparatus. Includes a description of apparatus and materials, the procedure for recording the hologram, the processing of the hologram, and the reconstruction of the image. (GS)

The purpose of the Laser/Electro-Optics Technology (LEOT) Project was to establish a pilot educational program, develop a flexible curriculum, prepare and test instructional materials, transport the curriculum and instructional materials into other educational institutions by establishing relevant LEOT programs wherever they are needed, and to…

As a result of work performed at the Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory with respect to lasers, this manual was prepared in response to the increasing use of lasers in high schools and colleges. It is directed primarily toward the high school instructor who may use the text for a short course in laser fundamentals. The definition of the…