The Dick and Rae Physics Demo Notebook

Demonstrations have long been a part of the physics classroom, dating back as far as Lord Kelvin in the 19th century. Good demos are known to play a crucial role in physics education, boosting students’ interest and understanding. The Dick and Rae Physics Demo Notebook lists hundreds of demonstrations, stemming from 16 summer workshops held at Virginia Military Academy by the authors over a period of 20 years.

 

Known as The Ultimate Demonstration Book, The Dick and Rae Physics Demo Notebook is a unique and inspirational collection of clearly presented demos. All teachers need is access to simple tools and equipment, such as commonly found items from the laboratory, garden, or kitchen.

 

Key highlights:

 

• Explains physics concepts clearly at all levels

• Lists 460 main demonstrations, with several hundred alternatives

• Demonstrations are organized by the main areas studied in first year undergraduate courses—mechanics, fluids, heat, waves and sound, electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics

• Up to 25 demonstrations are included on each topic

• Includes over 700 photos and 750 references

Teachers of physics at all levels, from elementary to college, will find The Dick and Rae Physics Demo Notebook an invaluable addition to their classroom. Some of the simplest demos are suitable for public audiences, ranging to other more complex ones appropriate for graduate level.