Physics Lab in a Hardware Store (Physical Science Labs)

Examines such topics in physics as mass, weight, gravity, buoyancy, and pressure with experiments using common household tools

Gr 6-9--With clear, easy-to-follow explanations, Friedhoffer explores how various tools and devices found in hardware stores rely on basic concepts of physics, such as the inclined plane, mass, buoyancy, and the lever. The presentation is great fun and illustrates how everyday tools must be designed with an appreciation of physical laws. Suggestions for demonstrations using various pieces of hardware equipment are also included. Clear, black-and-white drawings aid in explaining the physics concepts. This title is a companion volume to Physics Lab in a Housewares Store (Watts, 1996), which follows the same concept with tools commonly found in the kitchen. A jarring note to parents and educators states that many of the students who will be attracted to one of the books will probably not be attracted to the other, "due to traditional gender preferences." Given the overlap between the two books, libraries would be well served to purchase one of them, but do not need both.

Alan Newman, American Chemical Society, Washington, DC

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