Reexamines the electronic structure of water considering divergent views. Discusses several aspects of molecular orbital theory using spectroscopic molecular orbitals and localized molecular orbitals. Gives examples for determining lowest energy spectroscopic orbitals. (ML)

Describes why specific forms of orbitals used to interpret spectroscopy involving electronic transitions may not say much about the electronic structure of molecules. Discusses several theoretical approaches to explain the anomoly. Determines that the Lewis electron-pair model for molecules is a good predictor of spectroscopic results. (ML)

Considers two types of laser applications in kinetics. Explores short laser pulses to prepare a reactant in a known state and a continuous laser as a probe to monitor specific species in a reaction. Describes how lasers work and provides several examples of kinetic reactions. (ML)

Presents background information, laboratory procedures, classroom materials/activities, and chemistry experiments. Topics include sublimation, electronegativity, electrolysis, experimental aspects of strontianite, halide test, evaluation of present and future computer programs in chemistry, formula building, care of glass/saturated calomel…

Described are 14 experiments that use lasers. Topic areas include physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry. Instrumentation and the use of the laser in undergraduate research are discussed. (CW)

"Spreadsheets in Physical Chemistry" contains reviewed and classroom tested Lotus 1-2-3 and SuperCalc IV templates and handouts designed for use in physical chemistry courses. The 21 templates keyed to Atkins' physical chemistry textbook, the 7 numerical methods templates, and the 10 simulation templates are discussed. (MVL)

Describes a chemistry software program that emulates a modern binary gradient HPLC system with reversed phase column behavior. Allows for solvent selection, adjustment of gradient program, column selection, detectory selection, handling of computer sample data, and sample preparation. (MVL)

Traces the development of bonding theory and notes the influence of preconceived theory upon this development. Considers ideas of alchemy, Newton, Dalton, Lewis, and quantum mechanics. Suggests a move away from conservative descriptive approaches of bonding theory. (ML)

Contains ratings of two software packages for Apple II computers: "Acid-Base Titrations, CHM311A" and "Chemical Principles for the Introductory Laboratory, CHM 384A." Both are aimed at high school and college chemistry and are rated on ease of use, subject matter content, pedagogic value, and student reaction. (CW)

Notes two uses of computer spreadsheets in the chemistry classroom. Discusses the general use of the spreadsheet to easily provide changing parameters of equations and then replotting the results on the screen. Presents a molecular orbital spreadsheet calculation of the LCAO-MO approach. Supplies representative printouts and graphs. (MVL)

Reports two electrochemical demonstrations. Uses a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell to power a clock. Includes description of methods and materials. Investigates the "potato clock" used with different fruits. Lists emf and current for various fruit and electrode combinations. (ML)

Argues that the field of inorganic chemistry is facing an identity crisis. Proposes that the current call for curriculum reform in inorganic chemistry is an opportunity to return to a stronger discipline. Presents a history of freshman chemical education and recommends a new program for inorganic chemistry. (TW)

Describes two methods to teach radioactive decay to secondary students with wide ranging abilities. Activities are designed to follow classroom discussions of atomic structure, transmutation, half life, and nuclear decay. Includes "The Tasmanian Empire: A Radioactive Dating Activity" and an exercise to teach concepts of half life without…

Describes the use of computer spreadsheet programs in physical chemistry classrooms. Stresses the application of bar graphs to fundamental quantum and statistical mechanics. Lists the advantages of the use of spreadsheets and gives examples of possible uses. (ML)

Describes a demonstration showing the chemical reversibility between the chromate and dichromate ions. Includes reaction equations and listing of equipment needed. Recommends a demonstration for illustrating Le Chatelier's principle and stoichiometric relationships. (ML)