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Dec 1975

Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1025-1121

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Raja Sawai Jai Singh II: An 18th century medieval astronomer

William A. Blanpied

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1025

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The early 18th‐century observatories constructed in five North Indian cities by the Raja Jai Singh represent the last historical attempt to carry out a major program in observational astronomy using naked eye methods alone. The major instruments are described and the precision of each is estimated. An attempt is then made to discern the motives which led Jai Singh to construct these observatories more than a century after Galileo first used the telescope for astronomical purposes. It is concluded that Jai Singh’s astronomical program can only be understood in terms of the place which science occupied in the social and political matrix of late Moghul India.
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01.60.+q Biographies, tributes, personal notes, and obituaries
95.55.Cs Ground-based ultraviolet, optical and infrared telescopes
95.55.Fw Space-based ultraviolet, optical, and infrared telescopes

Energy and the environment

G. M. Crawley and S. K. Haynes

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1036

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We have for several years offered a course entitled ’’Energy and the Environment’’ that is quantitative where necessary, is aimed at the general student, and surveys systematically the whole energy problem and its social, political, economic, and moral implications. The course is perhaps unique in combining all these characteristics with the use of outside experts whose contributions are closely integrated with the thread of the course as a whole.
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01.40.Di Course design and evaluation
89.30.-g Fossil fuels and nuclear power
01.75.+m Science and society

Remark on the equilibrium of moving systems

H. A. Buchdahl and M. A. Simpson

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1041 | Cited 1 time

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The most general motion of an isolated thermodynamic system K in equilibrium is determined by Landau and Lifshitz through an appeal to the equilibrium condition δS=0. It is argued that this work actually amounts to a demonstration of the internal consistency of the thermodynamic formalism in this case since the problem is soluble by an appeal to prior criteria. We use these to determine all motions consistent with equilibrium in the more general case of a system K which is not isolated. Although the temperature would of necessity be uniform if K were at rest, this is no longer obviously the case when it is moving. To emphasize this point, we first determine the possible relativistic motions of K, restricted to be translations in a fixed direction, and then determine explicitly the distribution of absolute temperature within it. It turns out to be nonuniform only when K is accelerated, and then it varies in a manner consistent with the principle of equivalence.
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05.70.-a Thermodynamics

Conserved and piecewise‐conserved Runge vectors for the isotropic harmonic oscillator

Lawrence H. Buch and Harry H. Denman

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1046 | Cited 7 times

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A procedure for constructing a Runge vector for a particle moving (classically or relativistically) under any central force has been given by Fradkin. Serebrennikov and Shabad have pointed out that such vectors may be piecewise conserved, rather than constants for the entire motion. It is shown herein that, for the classical isotropic harmonic oscillator, the above procedure can lead to a piecewise‐conserved Runge vector as well as to a conserved one (of the same magnitude). We relate this ambiguity to the symmetries of the orbit.
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45.05.+x General theory of classical mechanics of discrete systems

Multipurpose physics learning center: A working model

R. B. Prigo, A. Korda, and W. C. Walker

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1049

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A recently instituted Physics Learning Center is described and evaluated. Innovations in the use of the facility include self‐paced student observation of phenomena, ’’PLC homework problems,’’ and extracurricular use by off‐campus groups.
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01.52.+r National and international laboratory facilities

Demonstrations using a Fabry–Perot. I. Multiple‐slit interference

Chandrasekhar Roychoudhuri

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1054

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A method is described by which a multiple‐slit interference pattern can be demonstrated quite easily with the help of an inexpensive Fabry–Perot etalon and a low‐power laser beam. The separation between the ’’slits’’ can be adjusted continuously. The experiment brings forth the similarity between a grating and a Fabry–Perot as a fringe‐sharpening device. A simple derivation of the analytical expression for such fringes is presented.
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01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
42.25.Hz Interference

Demonstrations using a Fabry–Perot. II. Laser modes display

Chandrasekhar Roychoudhuri and Robert H. Noble

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1057 | Cited 1 time

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A Fabry–Perot etalon is used to display both the longitudinal and the transverse modes present in a laser beam. Analysis and experimentations show that plates no better than λ/20 flatness and spacers in the range between 4 and 10 cm are satisfactory for helium–neon lasers.
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01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
42.60.Jf Beam characteristics: profile, intensity, and power; spatial pattern formation

On the integral equations for electromagnetic scattering

Staffan Ström

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1060 | Cited 9 times

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In the present article we discuss several volume and surface integral expressions for an electromagnetic field in the presence of a scatterer of finite extension, with special emphasis on a description of the scattering by means of a transition matrix.
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03.50.-z Classical field theories

Analysis of a thermal conductivity of gas experiment

R. E. Benenson and R. R. Dubin

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1070

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The data from a projects laboratory experiment are analyzed to give values of the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ. Experiments using simplified apparatus were carried out on the temperature and pressure dependence. Thermal conductivity of gas measurements are discussed for the case of large gradients in coaxial cylinder apparatus, a technique used in recent research. The various sources of error common to such measurements are assessed, including convection according to recent treatments.
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51.30.+i Thermodynamic properties, equations of state
05.70.-a Thermodynamics

Precision timing applied to a driven mechanical oscillator

J. Morris Blair

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1076

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A circuit is described that enables one to use simple equipment to improve the precision with which the frequency of a driven mechanical vibrator can be measured. The resonance frequency of the system consisting of a mass suspended from a spring is calculated by a procedure that simplifies the application of the general equation which is valid for all masses.
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01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
06.30.Ft Time and frequency

ESP: Teaching ’’scientific method’’ by counterexample

S. L. Blatt

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1079

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Increasing the students’ understanding of the methods of science is often one of the goals of an introductory course in physics for nonscientists. To supplement the examples arising directly from the usual subject matter and to stimulate clearer thought concerning the nature of scientific inquiry, discussion of some subjects which have a surface resemblance to science is proposed. The history of research into extrasensory perception appears to be ideal as such a counterexample, allowing for explicit comparisons which illuminate the subject of methodology in science while maintaining high student interest. Lecture suggestions, including demonstrations, are discussed.
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01.40.G- Curricula and evaluation

Measurement of the thermal properties of a metal using a relaxation method

John N. Fox and Richard H. McMaster

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1083

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An undergraduate experiment is described which employs a relaxation method for the measurement of the thermal conductivity and specific heat of a metallic sample in the temperature range 0–100°C.
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01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
65.40.Ba Heat capacity
72.15.Eb Electrical and thermal conduction in crystalline metals and alloys

Definition of instantaneous frequency and frequency measurability

Madhu Sudan Gupta

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1087 | Cited 10 times

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It is pointed out that the definitions of instantaneous and Fourier frequencies of a signal are noncausal and their measurement requires physically unrealizable systems. Some additional definitions of frequency are given that are causal.
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02.30.Nw Fourier analysis
06.30.Ft Time and frequency

Why −i∇ is the momentum

Thomas F. Jordan

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1089 | Cited 3 times

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The operators −i∇, the translation generators, are related to mass and velocity by a simple argument that determines the form of the Hamiltonian, in terms of the translation generators, along with the Galilei generators, for a nonrelativistic particle. For a relativistic particle, a similar discussion is given for the analogous problem of determining the position operators for an irreducible unitary representation of the Poincaré group, at least well enough to identify the velocity operators and thus identify the momentum.
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03.65.Fd Algebraic methods
03.30.+p Special relativity

Pure states, mixtures, and polarization

D. J. W. Geldart and D. Kiang

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1094

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Some specific difficulties and pitfalls frequently encountered by beginning students in quantum mechanics relating to pure states, mixtures, and polarization are emphasized and clarified.
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03.65.Ta Foundations of quantum mechanics; measurement theory
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Pseudo integration using FORMAC

C. W. David

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1097

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Abstract Unavailable
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07.05.Bx Computer systems: hardware, operating systems, computer languages, and utilities
02.60.Jh Numerical differentiation and integration

Entropy changes in real gases and liquids

Harvey S. Leff

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1098 | Cited 2 times

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Abstract Unavailable
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05.70.Ce Thermodynamic functions and equations of state

Positive and negative temperature coefficients of resistance

A. G. Klein

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1100

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
72.20.Pa Thermoelectric and thermomagnetic effects

Simple formula for the distortions in a Gaussian representation of a Poisson distribution

L. J. Curtis

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1101 | Cited 1 time

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Abstract Unavailable
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02.50.-r Probability theory, stochastic processes, and statistics
07.05.-t Computers in experimental physics

Beats and interference: A classroom demonstration

S. H. Vegors, Jr.

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1103

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
43.20.+g General linear acoustics

A simple direct demonstration of persistent current in a superconducting circuit

J. J. Rowland

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1105 | Cited 1 time

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
74.50.+r Tunneling phenomena; Josephson effects

Simple hydrodynamic treatment of ocean tides

P. Seligmann and M. Steinberg

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1106 | Cited 1 time

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Abstract Unavailable
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92.10.Hm Ocean waves and oscillations
47.10.-g General theory in fluid dynamics
01.40.G- Curricula and evaluation

Theory of the frictional Van de Graaff electrostatic generator

A. W. Simon

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1108

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Abstract Unavailable
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41.20.Cv Electrostatics; Poisson and Laplace equations, boundary-value problems
41.20.Gz Magnetostatics; magnetic shielding, magnetic induction, boundary-value problems
85.90.+h Other topics in electronic and magnetic devices and microelectronics (restricted to new topics in section 85)

Erratum: ’’Simplified navigation of self‐propelled astronauts’’

Roger A. Freedman, Ibrahim Helmy, and Peter D. Zimmerman

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1110

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Abstract Unavailable
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43.10.Vx Errata
45.05.+x General theory of classical mechanics of discrete systems
94.05.Jq Spacecraft sheaths, wakes, and charging

Erratum: ’’Repechage: A second chance at learning’’

Martin S. Weinhous and William R. Webber

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1110

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Abstract Unavailable
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43.10.Vx Errata
01.50.Kw Techniques of testing
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Standard wavelength source for spectroscopy

Joseph F. Mulligan

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1111

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Abstract Unavailable
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42.72.-g Optical sources and standards

Method for constructing curved glass slits

John S. Rayside and William H. Fletcher

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1111 | Cited 1 time

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Abstract Unavailable
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42.86.+b Optical workshop techniques
42.87.-d Optical testing techniques
42.79.Bh Lenses, prisms and mirrors
06.60.Vz Workshop procedures (welding, machining, lubrication, bearings, etc.)

Resistance experiment requiring calculus

Mary Sheehan, Kenneth Dolph, and Daniel Dempsey

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1112

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.Pa Laboratory experiments and apparatus
07.50.-e Electrical and electronic instruments and components
07.55.-w Magnetic instruments and components

Observation of phase changes in the vibrating string experiment

A. S. McWilliams

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1112

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.My Demonstration experiments and apparatus
42.79.-e Optical elements, devices, and systems
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Exploration of the Universe: Updated Brief Edition by George Abell. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

An Introduction to Experimental Astronomy by Roger B. Culver. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

Concepts of Contemporary Astronomy by Paul W. Hodge. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

Astronomy: Fundamentals and Frontiers, 2nd ed. by Robert Jastrow and Malcolm H. Thompson. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

Astronomy and Space Exploration by Russell K. Rickert. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

Everyman’s Astronomy, edited by R. H. Stoy. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

The Science of Astronomy. John A. Woods, sponsoring Ed. Reviewed by

Tom Arny

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1113

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
94.90.+m Other topics in space plasma physics, physics of the ionosphere and magnetosphere (restricted to new topics in section 94)

Visionary Physics: Blake’s Response to Newton by Donald D. Ault. Reviewed by

R. Ravindra

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1114

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.60.+q Biographies, tributes, personal notes, and obituaries

Fundamentals of Physics by David Halliday and Robert Resnick. Reviewed by

W. W. Smith

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1117

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
01.55.+b General physics

Physics for the Life Sciences by Alan H. Cromer. Reviewed by

Richard W. Cole

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1118

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
87.90.+y Other topics in biological and medical physics (restricted to new topics in section 87)

Laboratory Manual to Accompany Physics for the Life Sciences by Alan H. Cromer and Robert I. Boughton. Reviewed by

Richard W. Cole

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1118

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.30.Vv Book reviews
87.90.+y Other topics in biological and medical physics (restricted to new topics in section 87)
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Explorations in Space and Time (film), produced by M. L. Meeks. Reviewed by

Haym Kruglak

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1120

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.F- Audio and visual aids
95.10.Ce Celestial mechanics (including n-body problems)

Shadows of Bliss (film), produced by Denis Postle and Edwin Shaw, and edited by Peter Goodchild. Reviewed by

Thomas Romanowski

American Journal of Physics -- December 1975 -- Volume 43, Issue 12, pp. 1121

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Abstract Unavailable
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01.50.F- Audio and visual aids
11.90.+t Other topics in general theory of fields and particles (restricted to new topics in section 11)
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