Physics and environment

In this issue our feature articles focus on the subject of environmental problems. On page 26 Marvin Goldberger explains generally how physicists can contribute in this area. Following him on page 32 Hans Panofsky points out how heavily modern meteorology draws on various branches of physics. On page 38 Ali Cambel reviews the projected increases in demand for energy and the ways that these increases might be achieved with minimum threat to the environment. The three authors originally presented their papers at the recent Annual Meeting of Society Officers and Corporate Associates of the American Institute of Physics. Besides “Physics and Environment,” speakers at the meeting also presented papers concerned with “Physics and Life Sciences” and “Physics and Energy Sources.” The prize winners of the photographic competition held by PHYSICS TODAY for each of these three subject areas were first announced at this meeting. Each winner received an award of $200. Following are reproductions of the prize-winning photographs.