October 1995 Physics Today Contents


Articles:

Quantum Information and Computation

A new quantum theory of communication and computation is emerging, in which the stuff transmitted or processed is not classical information, but arbitrary superpositions of quantum states -- Charles H. Bennett

Helioseismology

Observation and analysis of the vibrations of the Sun allow us to probe its interior structure and dynamics to test and expand our understanding of physics and astrophysics -- John Harvey

Julian Schwinger: Prodigy, Problem Solver, Pioneering Physicist

He made major contributions to atomic, nuclear and particle physics, statistical mechanics, QED and field theory, and discovered many of the principles and methods we now take for granted -- Paul C. Martin and Sheldon L. Glashow


Departments:

Reference Frame

The Choice -- Daniel Kleppner

Search and Discovery

Oscillating granular layers produce stripes, squares, hexagons . . . Experiments with vertically oscillating thin layers of granular particles show robust pattern formation. Studying the pattern dynamics may yield insight into basic mechanisms of granular flow and connect these patterns to those found in other dissipative systems.

Space-based telescopes see primordial helium in spectra of distant quasars. Looking way back in time, astronomers have found evidence of the primordial gases---first, hydrogen, and now, with the help of space-based telescopes, the more elusive helium.

German neutron source gets go-ahead.

Meeting Preview

American Vacuum Society to convene in Minneapolis

Washington Reports

Despite nuclear tests by France and China, prospects rise for comprehensive test ban

Congress murders its analytic child, ending OTA's bipartisan studies

Physics Community

Technological challenges let Congressional Fellows showcase their knowledge and skills. As problems (and solutions) with scientific underpinnings pervade government discourse, Congressional Fellows make an impact on issues ranging from telecommunications to nuclear waste.

Latest AIP survey confirms physicists' job fears. An analysis of the job market for recent degree recipients confirms a weakening correlation between a degree in physics and satisfying employment.

Physics at James Madison University gets a new life.

Career Choices

Exposing the dangers of tobacco smoke

Books

Bose--Einstein Condensation, edited by A. Griffin, D. W. Snoke and S. Stringari (reviewed by T. Greytak)

The First Nuclear Era: The Life and Times of a Technological Fixer, A. M. Weinberg (reviewed by H. W. Lewis)

The Internet for Scientists and Engineers: Online Tools and Resources, B. J. Thomas (reviewed by M. Sher)
(Link to Patrick Crispen's Internet tutorial)

The Beat of a Different Drum: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman, J. Mehra (reviewed by S. S. Schweber)

Environmental Physics, E. Boeker and R. van Grondelle (reviewed by D. Hafemeister)

Industry's Future: Changing Patterns of Industrial Research, H. I. Fusfeld (reviewed by C. B. Duke)

Case Studies in Superconducting Magnets: Design and Operational Issues, Y. Iwasa (reviewed by K. R. Marken)

Fractal Concepts in Surface Growth, A. L. Barabasi and H. E. Stanley (reviewed by L. M. Sander)

Interaction of Electromagnetic Waves with Electron Beams and Plasmas, C. S. Liu and V. K. Tripathi (reviewed by Y.-Y. Lau)

Electric and Magnetic Interactions, R. Chabay and B. Sherwood (reviewed by W. W. Quivers)

Plus...

Our regular sections: Physics Update, Letters, New Products, We Hear That, and Information Exchange.


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