An exercise on structure elucidation for advanced undergraduate students is described. To determine the structure of an unknown product, students are required to use spectra together with an organic chemistry mechanism. This exercise exemplifies the procedure commonly used in research, thus helping students develop problem-solving skills. In…

Traces electronegativity in four fundamental areas of chemistry during the period 1870-1910: (1) the relationship between electronegativity and classical valence; (2) the relationship between electronegativity and periodic law; (3) the relationship between electronegativity thermochemistry; and (4) the relationship between electronegativity and…

The challenges faced by the predominantly undergraduate institutions (PUI) due to the changing landscape of higher education and research are described. An Undergraduate Research Summit recommends methods for the enhancement of the amount, quality, productivity and visibility of chemistry research at predominantly undergraduate institutions (PUI).

Discusses comparisons of packing densities derived from known molar volume data of liquids and solutions. Suggests further studies for using assemblies of spheres as models for simple liquids and solutions. (MLH)

Presents a manual of techniques addressed to the scientist who has done intrinsically interesting research and is about to present it orally to a scientific audience. (MKR)

This paper explores how Fourier Transform (FT) mimics spectral transformation, how this property can be exploited to advantage in spectroscopy, and how the FT can be used in data treatment. A table displays a number of important FT serial/spectral pairs related by Fourier Transformations. A bibliography and listing of computer software related to…

Several chemical concepts can be visualized by using deformation density maps. They often present convincing experimental confirmation and they should be incorporated into the chemistry curriculum dealing with bonding and molecular structure. Examples of the maps and quantitative information derived from research studies are presented. (JN)

Discusses the toxicity of metals; each metal is presented with information concerning its biological function, its natural state, and a variety of other factors. (SA)

Discusses the physical basis and current understanding of hydrophobic effects. The thermodynamic background of the effects, hydrophobic hydration, and hydrophobic interactions are described. Four existing controversies are outlined. (YP)

The solvent and chemical properties of liquid ammonia are presented. In a certain sense, ammonia is a more versatile solvent than is water because of its ability to solubilize, without reaction, highly negative or reducing species. (Author/BB)

Describes the life of Niels Bjerrum, a Danish physical chemist, best known as the originator of the concept that strong electrolytes are almost completely dissociated into ions in solution. (Author/JN)

Describes CIRRUS (the Chemistry Internet Resource for Research by Undergraduate Students), an Internet-based resource in support of the undergraduate chemical research enterprise. Supports communication and information-sharing by providing a companion electronic mail server. Presents examples of services provided by CIRRUS. (JRH)

Outlines the chemistry of the rapid synthesis of relatively large DNA fragments (100-200 monomers each) with yields exceeding 99 percent per coupling. DNA synthesis methodologies are outlined and a polymer-supported synthesis of DNA using deoxynucleoside phosphoramidites is described with structural formulas. (YP)

Discusses the most famous hoax in the history of science involving fossils including fragments of human or simian skulls and jaws and teeth found in gravel pits. Describes a laboratory experiment that exposes students to the problems of scientific misconduct. (CCM)

Discusses dichlorodiammineplatinum's ability to inhibit bacterial cell divisions and its use as an antitumor agent. (SL)