The classical vacuum of physics is not empty, but contains a distinctive pattern of electromagnetic fields. Discovery of the vacuum, thermal spectrum, classical electron theory, zero-point spectrum, and effects of acceleration are discussed. Connection between thermal radiation and the classical vacuum reveals unexpected unity in the laws of…

Physicists at the European Organization for Nuclear Research discovered W particles using a giant particle accelerator. Existence of the particles confirms a 15-year-old theory about the nature of the universe, proving that electromagnetic and weak forces are related and raising hopes for a comprehensive theory which includes the strong force. (JN)

Helioseismology (similar to geophysicists' study of seismic waves) makes it possible to penetrate the sun's opaque brilliance by measuring surface oscillations. Their pattern and period hold clues to temperature, structure, composition, and dynamics of the sun's interior. Scientists have used data to build models (evolved mathematically) to…

Reports recent findings related to the particle Higgs boson and examines its possible contribution to the standard mode of elementary processes. Critically explores the strengths and uncertainties of the Higgs boson and proposed Higgs field. (ML)

A National Academy of Science report ("Physics Through the 1990's") says that American physics has been a highly diversified and productive enterprise, but continued excellence cannot be taken for granted. Progress in six subfields (elementary particle, nuclear, condensed-matter, atomic/molecular, plasma/fluid, and gravitation/cosmology physics)…

Provides the rationale for and examples of experiments designed to test the stability of protons and bound neutrons. Also considers the unification question, cosmological implications, current and future detectors, and current status of knowledge on proton decay. (JN)

Atomic spectroscopy is the study of atoms/ions through their interaction with electromagnetic radiation, in particular, interactions in which radiation is absorbed or emitted with an internal rearrangement of the atom's electrons. Discusses nature of this field, its status and future, and how it is applied to other areas of physics. (JN)

Discusses role of laboratory techniques in scientific investigations. Describes Rutherford's development of scattering techniques and von Wassermann's development of test for syphilis. States that discovering an effect requires a brilliant scientist, however, making it a technique requires that it be made usable by ordinary people. Uses Moseley's…

Examines present and future applications of computers in high-energy physics. Areas considered include high-energy physics laboratories, accelerators, detectors, networking, off-line analysis, software guidelines, event sizes and volumes, graphics applications, event simulation, theoretical studies, and future trends. (JN)

Mineralogy has become increasingly linked to chemistry and physics during recent years. This relationship between chemistry, physics, and mineralogy, as indicated by the content of conference papers, research studies, and physical/chemical laboratory procedures used in mineralogy, is reviewed. Creative applications of established mineralogic…

The development, role, and current research in particle physics at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory are reviewed, including discussions of its mission to understand the structure of matter, a brief history of particle physics, and the nature and applications of superconductivity, among other topics. (JN)

Highlights major accomplishments, developments, and research in the sciences during 1982, focusing on the space sciences, astronomy, medicine, biology, psychology, chemistry, physics, environment, and zoology. Includes a brief statement of the 1982 Nobel Prize winners' research in medicine, chemistry, and physics. (JN)

Highlights scientific accomplishments in 1981. Focuses on space sciences, medicine, geology, chemistry, physics, zoology, paleontology, environmental problems, and genetics including such topics as the Space Shuttle, Mount St. Helen's endangered species, genetic engineering, and the scientists associated with these accomplishments. (JN)