Provides instructions for making, inexpensively from envelopes, two polyhedra that illustrate chemical geometries. The individual steps involved, supported by detailed diagrams, are included. (JN)

Discusses a successfully implemented laboratory experiment that compares the strengths and weaknesses of mechanical and computer models. The computer models used are available from the Quantum Chemistry Program Exchange (QCPE) at a modest price. (JN)

Describes the nature and capabilities of methods used to characterize protein and peptide structure, indicating that they have undergone changes which have improved the speed, reliability, and applicability of the process. Also indicates that high-performance liquid chromatography and gel electrophoresis have made purifying proteins and peptides a…

Cartilage is a fundamental biological material that helps to shape the body and then helps to support it. Its fundamental properties of strength and resilience are explained in terms of the tissue's molecular structure. (JN)

Demonstrates the novelty and variety of the structue relationships in a class of cage molecules similar to cubane; syntheses for these substances are shown. (MLH)

Recent investigations show that the ipso position competes effectively with unsubstituted positions in many aromatic substitution reactions, regardless of charge type of reaction. Selected examples available for nucleophilic, electrophilic, and free radical reactions are reviewed to suggest the range of ipso reactions. (JN)

Discusses a simple, effective way of teaching S and R configurations for chiral molecules containing asymmetric centers. The method involves converting wedge/spatial representations to Fischer projections and prioritizing groups according to the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog sequence rules. Two examples illustrating the method are included. (JN)

Discusses the relationship between molecular structure, intermolecular forces, and tensile strengths of a polymer and suggests that this is a logical way to introduce polymers into a general chemistry course. (Author/JN)

In representing conformational equilibria of compounds having only one chiral center, erroneous formulas showing different antipodes on the two sides of the equilibrium are rare. In contrast, with compounds having two or more chiral centers especially with saturated heterocycles, this erroneous representation occurs frequently in the chemical…

Describes a method for specifying R/S (clockwise/counterclockwise) configuration about a chiral center which does not require the use of a three-dimensional physical model, the mental visualization of the molecule, or the memorization of a recently reported arbitrary number system. (Author/JN)

Presents a procedure for evaluating the required integrals for undergraduate students attempting to understand the consequences of perturbation theory. (CS)

Outlines a mathematical paradox obtained when calculating the dimensions of a hydorgen molecule using relativistic wave mechanics. (MLH)

Discusses the origin of surface tension in terms of the basic molecular nature of liquids and the contractile property of surfaces. (MLH)

Discusses the coordinated polyhedra approach to teaching the solid state. A solid is viewed as a collection of coordination complexes. Also proposes a method of extending the current chemical symbolism to include structural facts of solid state chemistry. (MLH)

Demonstrates that the concept of covalent bonding can be effectively taught, without quantum mechanics, as one of the basic applications of Coulomb's law. (MLH)