Lecture Demos

The Physics Department's lecture demonstration facility is the single largest room in the Physics Department and serves primarily as the stage for teaching physics through actual demonstrations of the dynamics of physics. To tell you more about this aspect of the Physics Department's teaching mission is Mr. Stan Crone, the undergraduate lecture demonstration coordinator.

Stane Crone

The lecture demonstrations presented in this facility are taught primarily in conjunction with the undergraduate physics courses #117/197 and #118/198. Demonstrations are made by professors who can choose from a selection of approximately 350 stored demonstration devices. These lectures are presented to illustrate dynamically the physics principles being taught in the classroom. The demonstrations cover the spectrum of classical physics and range in topic from Newton's Laws through quantum mechanics.

The facility employs the use of the latest audio - visual equipment including overhead closed circuit monitors and screen projection units.

In addition to teaching physics the facility is often loaned out to other departments for special affairs and lectures.

pict2

Physics professor Dr. Martin Israel
presenting lecture

Mr. Crone has been with the Washington University Physics Department since 1986. Working closely with faculty members, Mr. Crone has helped to innovate many new and interesting physics demonstrations. In 1997 Stan spearheaded a drive to renovate the lecture demonstration theater. Largely through his sustained and conscientious efforts an appropriation of approximately $250,000 was designated to completely renovate the facility resulting in a tremendously improved and comfortable learning atmosphere.