Abstract: A tab-forming device for adhesive tape dispensers which provides for variable length tabs by incorporating a ratchet spool and pawl in a flexible spring for expanding the spacing between two attached diverging tab-forming struts. The device may be attached to existing tape roll dispensers or molded as an integral part with the dispenser.

Abstract: A tape dispenser with a tab forming device which includes a pair of upwardly extending forward and rearward struts joined at lower extremities within a cylindrical slotted spring which limits maximum separation of the struts. Upper extremities of the struts are terminated in two wings which, when brought together, cause a tape loop to be made, forming a tape tab. The rearward strut is adapted with a downwardly extending leg and foot for being secured within a tape roll holder, while the forwardly extending strut is adapted with an inverted hook over the wing at the upper extremity of the strut. The hook includes a forward serrated edge for tearing tape. The entire construction may be molded as a unitary article.

Abstract: A light source for Zeeman spectroscopy wherein an anode in an ionizable gas is used for ion bombardment of a cathode having materials therein whose spectra is to be observed. The anode and cathode are mounted in a magnetically permeable housing which fits snugly between pole pieces of a magnet such that the magnetic field between pole pieces is perpendicular to the electric field between the anode and cathode so that the arc discharge therebetween is spacially limited to a narrow dimension, i.e., a line, for improved Zeeman atomic absorption spectroscopy.