An attempt to calibrate a conventional oven led to making a measurement of a thermophysical property of water using items found in the author's home. Specifically, the ratio of the energy required to heat water from the melting point to boiling to the energy required to completely boil away the water is found to be 5.7. This may be compared to the…

Energy and entropy are centerpieces of physics. Energy is typically introduced in the study of classical mechanics. Although energy in this context can be challenging, its use in thermodynamics and its connection with entropy seem to take on a special air of mystery. In this five-part series, I pinpoint ways around key areas of difficulty to…

Discusses the microscopic interpretation of thermal conductivity of various forms of matter. Forms considered include gases, metals, and insulators. (JN)

Studies the practicality of water-filled flat-plate solar collectors. An estimate of solar energy gathering abilities and applications in heating of homes are considered. (CP)

Presents a chronicle of the life of American born Benjamin Thompson. His private life as well as descriptions of his scientific experiments are discussed. (CP)

Reviews "Thermodynamics" (Cross Educational Software) and "Calorimetry and Thermodynamics" (Educational Materials and Equipment Company). The first package has seven programs (briefly described) while the second package contains virtually an identical subset of the Cross package. (JN)

Describes a demonstration using a heated wire to illustrate the phase change from the body-centered cubic form of iron to the face-centered cubic form. (MLH)

Photographs illustrate several principles of physics which can be observed in everyday situations. (CP)

Described is a physics experiment which investigates the reactions occurring when a hot dog is fried or broiled. (SL)

Suggests that energy education, as part of science education, start with processes taking place by themselves, emphasizing that reversing such processes requires a fuel-consuming device. Also suggests that thermodynamics be given greater prominence in courses after studying energy conservation. Includes science education philosophy behind the…

Suggests that Robert Frost's poem entitled "West-Running Brook" should be used to illustrate the second law of thermodynamics. The poem is included in the article. (ZWH)

Reports on technological advancements in the fields of solar collectors, thermal storage systems, and solar heating and cooling systems. Diagrams aid in the understanding of the thermodynamics of the systems. (CP)