Photorefraction is a method to easily estimate the refractive state of the eye. The principle of photorefraction involves projecting light into the eye during flash photography and then examining the paths of light that emerge from the pupil after scattering on the back portion of the interior of the eyeball (fundus). We will explain the optical…

Eye aberrations are commonly corrected by lenses that restore vision by altering rays before they pass through the cornea. Some modern promoters claim that pinhole glasses are better than conventional lenses in correcting all kinds of refractive defects such as myopia (nearsighted), hyperopia (farsighted), astigmatisms, and presbyopia. Do pinhole…

A whiplash event is a relative motion between the head and torso that occurs in rear-end automobile collisions. In particular, the large inertia of the head results in a horizontal translation relative to the thorax. This paper describes a simulation of the motion of the head and neck during a rear-end (whiplash) collision. A head-neck model that…

Discusses the characteristics of the Physics Activities Center established by the Kansas State University Department of Physics with the purpose of providing students the opportunities to "do their own thing". Included is a summary of its practical applications and a description of student reactions. (CC)

Describes an introductory lecture-demonstration for a physics class. The device transports a small steel ball from a starting point to a finishing point; along the way the ball goes through a number of steps. (RH)

Discusses the design of introductory physics course for elementary education majors and nonscience majors. Describes the learning cycle used for constructing hands-on activities. Provides an example of a week's activity on energy. Presents an evaluation of the course based on examinations and the teacher's impressions. (YP)

Describes laboratory equipment which has been modified to accommodate visually handicapped students enrolled in regular university level laboratory science courses. (SL)

The effect of color on heat absorption ability is demonstrated using different color copper disks on a snow covered surface. (CP)

Provides directions for a three person rotating reference system. A series of experiments used with the apparatus is also described. (CP)

Explains a method of exploiting recent interest in automobile safety to demonstrate, qualitatively, concepts of momentum and energy. (GS)

Describes the operation and numerous educational uses of an electronic music synthesizer. Capabilities (and limitations) of the synthesizer for use as a wave demonstrator are presented. (CP)