An experiment, in which students were given the opportunity to perform molecular dynamics simulations on a series of molecular liquids using the Amber suite of programs, is presented. They were introduced to both physical theories underlying classical mechanics simulations and to the atom-atom pair distribution function.

This is a follow-up to a previous article about the historical development of the biology-chemistry-physics order of science courses in U.S. high schools. The ideas and influences behind the development of the order and some of the original arguments about the grade placement of chemistry are presented. The influence of a leading chemistry…

A review of the work of Bernoulli and other early contributors to kinetic theory. One significant point is that the most outstanding work in this early period was done by a little-known Scotsman, John J. Waterston. (BB)

Presents a mnemonic method for assigning the electronic configurations of atoms. (JRH)

Examines several classes of errors with examples of each from the development of chemistry in the 18th and 19th centuries. These include erroneous theories, seeing a new phenomenon everywhere, theories erroneous in detail yet fruitful, rejection of right hypotheses, and incoherent insights. (Contains 36 references.) (ASK)

Discusses the goals of learning cycle laboratories in helping students acquire knowledge about a specific topic and to do so moving in a non-threatening way from the concrete operational level to the formal operational level. Describes an experiment designed for such laboratories dealing with the topic of oxidation-reduction. (TW)

Reports on a study intended to establish a relationship between the M-space (mental energy) and the M-demand (the variable difficulties of Piagetian tasks presumed to entail the same logical structure) of different items of general chemistry. Recommends that chemistry teachers consider the role of cognitive factors in determining student success.…

Discusses the role of quantum mechanics in high school chemistry textbooks. Attempts to coordinate the presentation of theory with the empirical evidence that supports it. Lists empirical generalizations and observations explained by quantum mechanics and exercises that require quantum mechanics to explain or predict phenomena in typical high…

Discusses the origins of electronegativity as a qualitative concept in the period between 1809 and 1813. Outlines the contributions of Amedeo Avogadro and Jons Jakob Berzelius to the development of this concept. Contains 53 references. (JRH)

Defines M-demand as the maximum number of schemes that the subject must activate simultaneously in the course of executing a task. Discusses the effect of M-demand on problem solving. Uses algorithms to reduce M-demand. Describes the role of algorithms in problem solving. (MVL)

Traces the men, experiments, and hypotheses involved in elucidating the nature of molecular motion from the work of Robert Brown in 1827 to Einstein in 1905. (GS)

Compares linear-nonlinear and planar-nonplanar geometry through the valence-shell electron pairs repulsion (V.S.E.P.R.), Mulliken-Walsh, and electrostatic force theories. Indicates that although the V.S.E.P.R. theory has more advantages for elementary courses, an explanation of the best features of the different theories offers students a better…