The 17 rare earth elements account for one-fifth of the 83 naturally occurring elements and collectively rank as the 22nd most abundant "element." Properties of these elements (including their chemical similarity), their extraction from the earth, and their uses are discussed. (JN)

Characteristics that industrial laboratory employers desire in science graduates are the ability to think, to achieve objectives, to communicate, interdisciplinary interests, energy and enthusiasm, and proper attitudes toward and understanding of industrial research. (CP)

Describes the present state of cooperation between industry and university education in Nigeria. Suggests reasons for developing cooperation, including manpower provisions, research, enrichment of teaching and learning, the continuing education of chemists, and financial support. (CS)

Describes how poly(ethylene oxide) was accidentally discovered in the industrial laboratory. (CS)

Presents a discussion of the manufacture of ethylene by thermal cracking of hydrocarbon feedstocks that is useful for introducing the subject of industrial chemistry into a chemistry curriculum. (MLH)

Introduces an industrial chemistry program aimed to provide basic skills and attitudes to incoming students. Explains the components of the program including: classwork, labwork, working as a team, and student evaluation. Includes 20 references. (YDS)

Marion D. Francis and Rosemary L. Centner tell the story of a special group of compounds, developments at their home company, Procter and Gamble, and contributions by researchers in Europe and the U.S., in "The Development of Diphosphonates as Significant Health Care Products."

A simple and effective way of exposing chemistry students to some of the effects of scaling up an organic reaction is described. It gives the student an experience that may encounter in an industrial setting.

Describes a one month course entitled "Chemists in Industry," offered between semesters at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The students visit numerous industries according to a scheduled program and submit reports at the end of the course. (MLH)

After a short historical background, sources of information on reactive chemical hazards are discussed, along with reasons why these sources are not being tapped, particularly in academic laboratories, and some underlying principles. (BB)

Describes the role of chemists in the eradication of tuberculosis. (CP)

Monsanto's highly successful synthesis of acetic acid from methanol and carbon monoxide illustrates use of new starting materials to replace pretroleum-derived ethylene. Outlines the fundamental aspects of the acetic acid process and suggests ways of extending the synthesis to higher carboxylic acids. (JN)