Expert Source: Barbara S. Andereck, Ph.D.

Barbara Andereck specializes in theoretical solid state physics. Her research interests include the physics of liquid crystals, especially phase transitions. She also is interested in working to enhance the teaching of physics and astronomy at the secondary and undergraduate levels and has created worksheets and other materials to assist teachers in this arena. Recently she wrote a supplementary text for sophomore-level physics titled Underlying Physics.

Education:

• B.S. in Ed., Missouri State University (formerly Southwest Missouri State University)
• Ph.D., Rutgers University

Areas of Expertise:

• Condensed matter and liquid crystals
• General astronomy
• Improving the teaching of physics and astronomy

Selected Publications:

• "The Magic Magnifier," Barbara S. Andereck and Sherri Secrest, The Physics Teacher, 39, 301, 2001.
• "Measurement of Air Resistance on an Air Track," Barbara S. Andereck, American Journal of Physics, 67, 528, 1999.
• "Anisotropy of the Nematic-Smectic-A Phase Transition," Barbara S. Andereck, Liquid Crystals in the Nineties and Beyond, Satyen Kumar, ed. World Scientific, 1996.