On the Internet

Physics 2000, provided by the chemistry and physics departments at the University of Colorado at Boulder, is an introduction to physics. In “Einstein’s Legacy,” cartoon characters guide visitors through visual and conceptual lessons on X-rays, CAT scans and microwave ovens. The “Atomic Lab” explores two physics phenomena: the two-slit experiment, which proves that light travels in waves, and Bose-Einstein condensation, which explores how atoms coalesce into a single large “blob” when temperatures approach absolute zero. A third lesson, on lasers, is under construction. Applets are used throughout the site to allow visitors to interact with animations to demonstrate physics principles. Users can, for example, stretch and shift two waves to learn about wave interference or adjust the frequency of laser beams to cool and trap atoms. Go to: https://www.Colorado.EDU/physics/2000/