Describes an introductory physics experiment concerned with scattering particles off various force centers. The experiment uses simulation techniques and a computer. The scattering is classical, and the student examines plots of computed particle trajectories. The results illustrate the concepts of differential corss-section, total cross-section,…

Suggests a first-order experiment that can be used to establish the Lorentz transformation without considering the constancy of light velocity or the full set of Maxwell's equations. Involves the use of a long solenoid to create an electric field in a moving magnetic field. (LC)

Discusses the theory of the Josephson Effect, the derivation of the Josephson voltage-frequency relation, and methods of measuring the fundamental constatn ratio e/h. Various types of Josephson junctions are described. The impact of the measurement of e/h upin the fundamental constants and quantum electro-dynamics is briefly discussed.…

Describes an experiment in which the Fresnel diffraction pattern of a single slit can be displayed directly on an oscilloscope. The experiment requires a minimum amount of equipment and space. Results of the experiment are presented and compared with theoretical calculations carried out by a digital computer. (LC)

Presents an advanced laboratory experiment and lecture demonstration by which the intensity spectrum of light scattered by a suspension of particles in a fluid can be studied. From this spectrum, it is possible to obtain quantitative information about the motion of the particles, including an accurate determination of their diffusion constant.…

Describes an advanced laboratory experiment of Fresnel diffraction which uses a He-Ne gas laser as the source and a wire as the opaque diffracting strip. A photograph of the diffraction pattern is compared with the intensity diagram predicted by the Cornu spiral method. Agreement is clear and impressive, although minor differences are detectable.…

Describes a student laboratory project involving the design of an "acoustic suspension speaker system. The characteristics of the loudspeaker used are measured as an extension of the inertia-balance experiment. The experiment may be extended to a study of Stelmholtz resonators, coupled oscillators, electromagnetic forces, thermodynamics and…

Describes modifications of a commercially available strip-type transmission line, which makes possible reproducible measurements of standing waves on the line. Experimental data yield values for the characteristic impedance, phase velocity and line wavelength of radiation in the transmission line, and the dielectric constant of material in the…

Reports the instructor's experiences with open-end introductory physics laboratories. Students' reactions to the course are summarized. Organizational details and changes in the organization made for 1969-70 are also included. Bibliography. (LC)

Describes how the Joule-Thomson porous plug experiment may be used to illustrate the usefulness of the enthalpy function, irreversibility, steady-state ideas, and a relativity principle inherent in Newtonian mechanics. Bibliography. (LC)

Describes a new "discovery-oriented" laboratory course in physics for college freshmen. The subject matter was Newtonian mechanics with calculus. The aim was to teach experimental methods from design of the experiment, testing hypotheses and presentation of final report. The laboratory was successful in most of its objectives and got moderately…

Describes three of many uses to which the desk-top computer has been put in the introductory physics laboratory. The three uses involve an AC circuit laboratory, an equipotential mapping experiment, and an N-slit diffraction experiment. Typical desk-top computer-produced theory plots are shown. (LC)