Discusses current research trends in the use of laser-fusion technology in combustion chambers to eradicate energy shortages. Indicates that fusion power could be made available at a relatively low expense. (CC)

The section on research and development (R and D) of the annual report on the chemical industry presents data related to: chemical R and D spending, R and D as per cent of sales, R and D employment, company R and D spending, R and D costs, and all industrial R and D employment. (PR)

Although polymers are regarded as electrical insulators, it was discovered that they can be made to conduct electricity. This discovery has opened vast new practical and theoretical areas for exploration by physicists and chemists. Research studies with these conducting polymers and charge-transfer salts as well as possible applications are…

Offers and discusses five guidelines to use when solving design problems: (1) evolve from simple to complex; (2) use depth-first approach; (3) develop approximate criteria; (4) use "top down/bottom up" designs alternately; and (5) make optimistic assumptions. Four examples illustrate the guidelines. (JN)

Provides a historical perspective for the current status of academic analytical chemistry. Compares composition, background, and productivity of academic analytical chemists over the period 1960-1980. Information was gathered for each faculty member self-identified as an analytical chemist during the 1959-1979 period. (CS)

Briefly discusses new instrumentation in the field of analytical chemistry. Advances in liquid chromatography, photoacoustic spectroscopy, the use of lasers, and mass spectrometry are also discussed. (CS)

The year-old volunteer council on Undergraduate Research has published a directory of facilities available in chemistry departments of 93 private colleges. The council is weighing other projects, such as, a quarterly newsletter, a national conference on undergraduate research, and the expansion of the council to include physics and biology.

Thermoluminescence and its application to archeological dating are considered in this article. Descriptions are given of the method, the required doses, absolute and relative dating, complications, and the relation of this type of dating to other methods. (SA)

A discussion of the past, present, and possible future developments in the field of reduction of organic compounds using hydrides. (BB)

Presents a discussion of the early developments in the field of quantum chemistry. (BB)

Because of the role it plays in physiology and neurobiology, there is a rebirth of interest in nitric oxide. It can affect enzyme and immune system regulation and cytotoxicity. Nitric oxide may represent a new class of signaling molecules--gases that pass through cells and vanish. Overactive neurons produce large amounts of NO which may be linked…

Reports on a 30-year-old longitudinal study of reactions in gels. Described are reactions and crystal growth in silica gels and diffusion studies of the Liesegang ring formation. Color photographs showing the reactions and graphs upon the diffusions are presented. (YP)

Discusses role of laboratory techniques in scientific investigations. Describes Rutherford's development of scattering techniques and von Wassermann's development of test for syphilis. States that discovering an effect requires a brilliant scientist, however, making it a technique requires that it be made usable by ordinary people. Uses Moseley's…

Describes the Nobel Chemistry prize and categorizes the number of laureates per field of chemistry, country, and age in the history of Nobel Prizes. Explains who receives the award and laureates' effect on chemistry. (YDS)