Discussed are the molecular electronic terms which can arise from a given electronic configuration. Considered are simple cases, molecular states, direct products, closed shells, and open shells. Two examples are provided. (CW)

We report the development of a simplified procedure for restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of mushrooms. We have adapted standard molecular techniques to be amenable to an undergraduate laboratory setting in order to allow students to explore basic questions about fungal diversity and relatedness among mushroom species. The…

The yeast "Saccharomyces cerevisiae" has been used by human beings since ancient times for its ability to convert sugar to alcohol. Continual exposure to glucose in the natural environment for innumerable generations has probably enabled "S. cerevisiae" to grow in fermentative mode on sugars by switching off the genes responsible for respiration…

Proposes a simple solution to the problem of expressing graphically absolute configuration, racemic character, and relative configuration in molecules. As demonstrated by several examples, the proposed convention brings added clarity and simplicity to structural drawings and renders graphic displays of chiral molecules as explicit and information…

Lists and explains the major characteristics of water. Compares water's molecular structure and its temperature-related properties with four other lightweight molecules. Discusses why water is considered the universal solvent. (ML)

Discusses modifications in the fatty acid monolayer experiment to reduce the inaccurate moleculary data students usually obtain. Copies of the experimental procedure used and a Pascal computer program to work up the data are available from the authors. (JN)

Discusses the use of orbital shapes for instructional purposes, emphasizing that differences between polar, contour, and three-dimensional plots must be made clear to students or misconceptions will occur. Also presents three-dimensional contour surfaces for the seven 4f atomic orbitals of hydrogen and discusses their computer generation. (JN)

Describes a senior-level course that: (1) focuses on the structure and reactions of macromolecules; (2) treats industrial polymers in a unified way; and (3) uses analysis of conformation and conformational statistics as a unifying approach. Also discusses course topics, including polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids, and others. (JN)

Background information and procedures are provided for a demonstration of intramolecular versus intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The demonstration is based on structural changes in bilirubin molecules which lead to changes in physical properties. A list of further investigations to try is included. (JN)

A Macintosh microcomputer and MacPaint program can be used to quickly make charts of structural formulas that fill standard-sized paper with a minimum of instruction, and smaller drawings or structures or fragments may be inserted into text composed with a word processing program. Shows how this is done. (JN)

Because class size often limits student opportunity to handle individual models, teachers use stereoscopic projections to demonstrate structural features. Describes three-dimensional pointers for use with different projection systems so teachers can indicate a particular atom or bond to entire classes, avoiding the perspective problems inherent in…

The story of researcher Joseph V. Smith's solution to the chemical structure of a zeolite known as boggsite is presented. The value of the solution and the use of boggsite are discussed. (CW)

Discussed is the performance of college students on the task of solving chemistry problems involving Lewis structures. Difficulty of the task and of individual problems is described. A taxonomy of skills associated with Lewis structures is presented. (CW)

A single-semester elective combines Mendelian and molecular genetics in a problem-solving format. Students encounter a genetic disease scenario, construct a family pedigree, and try to confirm their medical diagnoses through laboratory experiences. Encouraged to generate ideas as they test their hypotheses, students realize the importance of data…

Describes current methods for the synthesis of DNA. Also describes the use of DNA as a highly specific molecular probe and as an agent for the mutation of genes. (DH)