To improve the teaching and learning materials for a curriculum it is important to incorporate the findings from educational research. In light of this, we present creative exercises and experiments to elicit, confront and resolve misconceptions in geometrical optics. Since ray diagrams can be both the cause and the solution for many…

With an aquarium and a few tools, a simple apparatus to quantitatively illustrate absorption rates of light passing through fresh, salt, and other waters (such as distilled water) can be constructed. Students learn that extinction rates are different and that the intensity/depth relationship is exponential. (DH)

Several activities related to color are discussed. These include placing different colors on a disk which, while spinning, appears to be white. Also discusses complementary and primary colors. (JN)

Explains the use of a convex lens as a thick mirror. Shows the expression for the power of this type mirror. (YP)

Describes a guided inquiry activity that addresses the law of reflection. Laboratory experiment is included. (DKM)

Discusses the use of 40 kHz ultrasonic transducers to study wave phenomena. Determines that the resulting wavelength of 9 mm allows acoustic experiments to be performed on a tabletop. Includes transducer characteristics and activities on speed of sound, reflection, double- and single-slit diffraction, standing waves, acoustical zone plate, and…

Presents a classical demonstration of polarization for high school students. The initial state of this model, which demonstrates the important concepts of the optical and quantum problems, was developed during the 1973 summer program on lecture demonstration at the U.S. Naval Academy. (HM)

Provides instructions for producing a spectrum in the secondary science classroom. Offers suggestions for using the spectrum and discusses how to make a rainbow using a garden hose or houseplant sprayer. (JN)

Provides instructions to make a device able to simulate the typical light pulses seen by a photomultiplier tube. Comments on circuit theory, circuit operation, and pedagogical value. (MVL)

Presents an apparatus, a solid-state sound generator in a plastic ball. Includes pictures of the ball and a diagram of the piezo horn. (YP)

Describes ray tracing techniques and the method of virtual mirrors to locate images when using multiple mirrors. (JN)

Described is a demonstration of Snell's law using a laser beam and an optical fiber. Provided are the set-up method of the demonstration apparatus and some practical suggestions including "index matching" technique using vaseline. (YP)

Discusses three topics which should be included in any "basic" course in geometrical optics: (1) reflection; (2) refraction; and (3) image formation. (SK)

Presents experiments with polarized light for grades 8-12 which can produce colorful effects with a minimum of equipment and can illustrate many principles of physics, chemistry, and geology. (MKR)