AAPT Logo
TPT Logo
 
   
 
Search Issue | RSS Feeds RSS
Previous Issue Next Issue

Feb 2006

Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 68-128

back to top
RSS Feeds

The Polar Aurora

David P. Stern

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 68

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.-d Education
01.55.+b General physics
94.30.Aa Auroral phenomena in magnetosphere
07.68.+m Photography, photographic instruments; xerography

Photographing Auroras: Important and Profitable

Ole Anton Haugland

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 68

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.-d Education
01.55.+b General physics
07.68.+m Photography, photographic instruments; xerography
94.30.Aa Auroral phenomena in magnetosphere
back to top
RSS Feeds

New AAPT President — Ken Heller

Ruth Chabay

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 70

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.10.-m Announcements, news, and organizational activities
01.60.+q Biographies, tributes, personal notes, and obituaries
01.40.-d Education
back to top
RSS Feeds

Teaching and Learning: A Necessary Entanglement

Ken Heller

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 71

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.40.Ha Learning theory and science teaching
01.30.Rr Surveys and tutorial papers; resource letters
back to top
RSS Feeds

AAPT 75th Anniversary

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 72

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
In recognition of the 75th anniversary of AAPT, during this year we will be publishing brief notes on interesting and significant science-related events in 1931, the founding year of AAPT.
Show PACS
01.30.Tt Bibliographies
01.65.+g History of science
01.10.Cr Announcements, news, and awards
back to top
RSS Feeds

SUBMERGED SUB

Paul Hewitt

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 74

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.55.+b General physics
01.40.E- Science in school
01.50.-i Educational aids
back to top
RSS Feeds

A Simple Lab Exercise to Determine the Coefficient of Static Friction

Mark Kinsler and Evelyn Kinzel

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 77 | Cited 2 times

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
This paper describes a quick, simple, and reliable physics lab exercise for determining the coefficient of static friction between common materials. Only a meter stick, a protractor, and samples of the materials are needed. A mathematical derivation is given to show why the method works. The mathematical skill level needed to understand the experiment is suitable for advanced high school or beginning college students.
Show PACS
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus

Elastic Collisions with Two Moving Objects Made Simple

Deb Funk

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 80

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
We are all familiar with head-on elastic collisions. They conserve energy and momentum according to the formulas:
math
Many texts expect the student to solve these two formulas simultaneously to find the final velocity of the two objects after the collision. Other books give the students the formulas to find the velocity of each car after the collision. These formulas are derived from the laws of conservation of energy and momentum with the additional but very limiting parameter that v2 = 0 (i.e., you must hit a stationary object). The formulas are:
math
The problem is that not every object that is struck is stationary. Stationary objects are just easier targets.
Show PACS
45.50.Tn Collisions
FREE

Quantitative Investigation of Thermal Expansion Using Single-Slit Diffraction

Hasan Fakhruddin

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 82 | Cited 1 time

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
There are a number of interesting articles1 that have discussed qualitative, quantitative, and other aspects of thermal expansion. A method to determine linear coefficient of thermal expansion using readily available materials is presented here. The design of the apparatus for this method allows for the width of a single slit to increase by the same amount as the thermal expansion of a length of a strip or a rod of a material. A laser is used to obtain a diffraction pattern for the single slit. The increase in the slit width, hence the linear expansion, can be measured by analyzing the diffraction pattern. The value of the linear coefficient of thermal expansion of the material can then be calculated.
Show PACS
01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
65.40.De Thermal expansion; thermomechanical effects
44.90.+c Other topics in heat transfer (restricted to new topics in section 44)
FREE

Sine Waves in the Snow

Albert A. Bartlett

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 85

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Last summer our neighbors put up a new, high board fence whose horizontal top board was approximately 10 cm wide. This top board quickly became a superhighway for squirrels. Figure 1 shows the top of the fence after the winter's first snowfall. One squirrel running in the snow on top of the fence has left the snow neatly sculptured into a good approximation of a sine wave. If the top of the fence is designated y = 0 and x is measured horizontally along the top of the fence, the equation for the approximate sine wave would be:
math
Show PACS
01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
62.30.+d Mechanical and elastic waves; vibrations

An Alternative Approach to Explaining Beats

Ronald Newburgh

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 86

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
This note examines the phenomenon of beats by noting that two sine functions of different frequency come into phase when the difference between their arguments is 2π. By using this analysis one can emphasize the physical meaning of trigonometric functions and the interpretation of phase.
Show PACS
02.90.+p Other topics in mathematical methods in physics (restricted to new topics in section 02)
42.25.Hz Interference
43.75.+a Music and musical instruments

Hanging by a Thread

Peretz D. Partensky and Michael B. Partensky

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 88 | Cited 2 times

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
A popular problem1 asks for the equilibrium separation between two mutually repelling charges. The charges are suspended on strings of equal length fastened to a common point [Fig. 1(a)]. Students are typically asked to find the equilibrium separation s between the charges or a related quantity such as the deflection angle. In this paper, we modify this problem slightly by considering two opposite and therefore attracting charges [Fig. 1(b)]. Now, in order to generate an equilibrium state at finite distance s, we suspend the charges at a finite initial separation s0. One might expect that this problem is just a routine extension of the original one. It turns out, however, that this is not the case. The discussion leading to the solutions introduces some very interesting physics, including “catastrophic” behavior.
Show PACS
01.40.eg Elementary school
01.55.+b General physics
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies

Phase-Space Orbits and the Ping-Pong Ball Impact Oscillator

Peter Millet, James Schreve, and Peter Coxeter

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 92

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Notions of chaotic behavior burst into the popular consciousness two decades ago.1 Since then a number of tabletop experiments2 have been devised for the classroom and teaching laboratory. In that vein we describe a readily assembled impact oscillator and present the use of phase-space plots in its study. It can be shown as a chaos demonstration or incorporated into a laboratory exercise. Its behavior is rich enough that it can also be studied as an open-ended project.3
Show PACS
01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
07.10.-h Mechanical instruments and equipment
45.40.Aa Translation kinematics

Lenz's Law Magic Trick

Michael J. Ruiz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 96 | Cited 3 times

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
The demonstration of Lenz's law by dropping a powerful magnet down a nonmagnetic metal pipe has become a classic lecture-hall demonstration.1,2 An inexpensive version is packaged as a professional magic trick3 called “Newton's Nightmare.” Combining sleight-of-hand with a demonstration of Lenz's law is a surefire way to heighten student interest. The subsequent student discussion motivated by a desire to understand the magic trick can lead to a memorable physics lesson. This paper will discuss Lenz's law magic and review literature that reveals the subtlety of the physics.
Show PACS
01.40.jh Inservice training
01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
75.00.00 Magnetic properties and materials

Accelerating Around an Unbanked Curve

Carl E. Mungan

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 99

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
The December 2004 issue of TPT presented a problem concerning how a car should accelerate around an unbanked curve of constant radius r starting from rest if it is to avoid skidding.1 Interestingly enough, two solutions were proffered by readers.2 The purpose of this note is to compare and contrast the two approaches. Further experimental investigation of various turning strategies using a remote-controlled car and overhead video analysis could make for an interesting student project.
Show PACS
45.40.Aa Translation kinematics
45.20.da Forces and torques
02.60.-x Numerical approximation and analysis

Content Exams for Pre-Service Physics Teachers: A Failing Grade

Stephen Kanim and Michael Loverude

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 101 | Cited 2 times

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Among other qualifications, effective teachers must have a robust knowledge of the subject matter that they teach. Many states require that prospective teachers of physics pass one or more standardized tests designed to measure content knowledge. Our survey of sample questions from these tests and from commercial examination preparation booklets suggests that there are significant deficiencies in these materials. Some questions contain physics errors. More often, the questions probe only the ability of test-takers to memorize facts or plug numbers into a formula, with little emphasis on conceptual understanding or pedagogical content knowledge. These deficiencies undermine the very purpose of such content tests.
Show PACS
01.40.J- Teacher training
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.50.Zv Errors in physics classroom materials
FREE

When Is a Capacitor NOT a Capacitor?

Biswajit Ray

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 106

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
This paper presents a simple yet effective experiment-based exercise that leads students to develop a circuit model for real capacitors. Additionally, this exercise drives home the point that characteristics of commonly used electrical components are heavily dependent on operating frequency. In this context a concise discussion of equivalent-series-resistance and equivalent-series-inductance for capacitors is presented.
Show PACS
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
07.68.+m Photography, photographic instruments; xerography
41.90.+e Other topics in electromagnetism; electron and ion optics (restricted to new topics in section 41)

The Learning Cycle: A Reintroduction

Steven J. Maier and Edmund A. Marek

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 109 | Cited 3 times

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
The learning cycle is an inquiry approach to instruction that continues to demonstrate significant effectiveness in the classroom.1–3 Rooted in Piaget's theory of intellectual development, learning cycles provide a structured means for students to construct concepts from direct experiences with science phenomena. Learning cycles have been the subject of numerous articles in science practitioner periodicals as well as the focus of much research in science education journals.4 This paper reintroduces the learning cycle by giving a brief description, followed by an example suitable for a range of physics classrooms.
Show PACS
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.40.Ha Learning theory and science teaching

A Block Dragging a Cart

Peter Sullivan, Joseph Novak, and Philip Sancilio

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 114 | Cited 1 time

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
This paper describes an experiment in which a block is pulled by a string across the top of a cart and drags the cart along with it (see Fig. 1). The ratio of the block's displacement to the cart's displacement can be modeled using the algebra-based Newtonian mechanics available to introductory college and advanced high school students. We examined the effect of the mass of the block on this ratio. Displacement data for the block and cart were obtained using video analysis. This experiment was originally conceived of and carried out by students in my honors physics course. We present the results of this experiment. The results are in good agreement with the model derived here.
Show PACS
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
06.30.Gv Velocity, acceleration, and rotation
45.20.D- Newtonian mechanics
01.50.ht Instructional computer use
back to top
RSS Feeds

Convert Your Common Physical Balance into a Microbalance

S. S. R. Inbanathan and G. Balasubramanian

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 118

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
The common physical balance consists of a beam supported at the center by a knife edge made of steel or agate. This knife edge rests on a plate of hard material fixed to the top of the pillar. At the two ends of the beam and at equal distances from the central knife edge, there are two knife edges pointing upward. From these are hung two stirrups that carry scale pans of equal masses. A pointer is attached to the middle of the beam perpendicular to it and this moves over an ivory scale fixed at the bottom of the pillar. This is the simple description of the common physical balance. By fixing a reflector and mirror, this can be converted into a very sensible balance and can even be used as a microbalance.
Show PACS
06.30.Dr Mass and density
01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
back to top
RSS Feeds

Notes on a Demonstration of Projectile Motion

Iain MacInnes

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 120

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.40.J- Teacher training
01.55.+b General physics
back to top
RSS Feeds

The Simplest Generator from the Simplest Motor?

Robert Beck Clark

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 121

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
41.20.-q Applied classical electromagnetism
back to top
RSS Feeds

Pinhole glasses?

Russell Patera

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 122 | Cited 1 time

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
42.15.-i Geometrical optics
back to top
RSS Feeds
FREE

A Pipe Dream

Boris Korsunsky

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 123

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.J- Teacher training
01.50.-i Educational aids
01.55.+b General physics
FREE

A Stubborn Skateboard

Boris Korsunsky

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 123

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.J- Teacher training
01.50.-i Educational aids
01.55.+b General physics
back to top
RSS Feeds

Assign a Writing Task to Improve Student Engagement at Public Lectures

Timothy F. Slater

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 124

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Show Abstract
Did you see the news? A famous scientist is going to be visiting a museum nearby and is giving a public lecture. You'll probably think to yourself, “Wow, this is a unique opportunity I want my students to experience!” But, as a new teacher, you might be totally surprised just how little students sometimes seem to gain from attending even the most entertaining public lecture. It seems to me that if we are knowledgeable about the processes of effective teaching and learning, we might be able to improve the chances that students will have a positive and perhaps life-guiding experience.
Show PACS
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
01.30.Rr Surveys and tutorial papers; resource letters
back to top
RSS Feeds

Diagnoser

Dan MacIsaac

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 126

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.50.-i Educational aids
01.40.J- Teacher training
01.50.H- Computers in education

Constructing an inexpensive working aluminum-air battery

Dan MacIsaac

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 126

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.50.H- Computers in education
01.40.J- Teacher training

A friction applet and other activities appropriate for elementary students

Dan MacIsaac

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 126

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.50.H- Computers in education
01.40.J- Teacher training
back to top
RSS Feeds

Biography of a Method: Drawing Theories Apart: The Dispersion of Feynman Diagrams in Postwar Physics: David Kaiser

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.65.+g History of science

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Basic Economics: A Citizen's Guide to the Economy: Thomas Sowell

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.85.+f Careers in physics and science

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Dynamics of Markets: Econophysics and Finance: Joseph L. McCauley

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.75.+m Science and society

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Theory of Financial Risk and Derivative Pricing: From Statistical Physics to Risk Management, 2nd edition: Jean-Philippe Bouchaud and Marc Potters

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.75.+m Science and society

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Soil Physics Companion: A. W. Warrick

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
92.00.00 Hydrospheric and atmospheric geophysics

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Scaling in Biology: James H. Brown and Geoffrey B. West

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.40.E- Science in school

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Death's Acre: Inside the Legendary Forensic Lab — The Body Farm — Where the Dead Do Tell Tales: Bill Bass and Jon Jefferson

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.50.-i Educational aids

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: Teasing Secrets from the Dead: My Investigations at America's Most Infamous Crime Scenes: Emily Craig

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.50.-i Educational aids

MicroReviews by the Book Review Editor: No Stone Unturned: The True Story of Necrosearch International, the World's Premier Forensic Investigators: Steve Jackson

John L. Hubisz

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 127

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.50.-i Educational aids
back to top
RSS Feeds

Reignite Your Passion Via Sharing

Diane Riendeau

The Physics Teacher -- February 2006 -- Volume 44, Issue 2, pp. 128

Online Publication Date: Jan 2006

Full Text: Read Online (HTML) | Download PDF

Abstract Unavailable
Show PACS
01.40.E- Science in school
01.40.gb Teaching methods and strategies
Close

AAPT on:

close