Computer applications in scientific instrumentation are traced from early data processing to modern computer-based instruments. Probable pathways toward instruments with increased "intelligence" include, among others, implementation of hierarchical computer networks and microprocessor controllers and the simplification of programing. The…

Reviews the history of vacuum technology. Includes vacuum pump developments (mechanical, ion, and cyrogenic pumps), measurement techniques, the development of the American Vacuum Society, and electronics in vacuum technology. (JN)

Describes the features and operation of an inexpensive digital pH meter. Includes a schematic diagram of the pH meter and a parts list with cost and source of each part. (SK)

Describes a ripple tank demonstration that displays interference patterns responsible for producing beats and provides photographs of computer simulations of various beat interference patterns. Includes programs for the computer simulation and equations of constructive interference paths in beat interference patterns. (Author/SK)

Describes an experiment suitable for an instrumental analysis or quantitative analysis course. (BB)

Experimental and theoretical data are presented which verifies the existence of the hydronium ion. This existence was confirmed directly by x-ray and neutron diffraction in hydrochloric acid. Recommended is the abandonment of the erroneous hydrogen ion formulation and names such as proton hydrate. (BT)

Describes the construction of a versatile signal generator suitable for use in cyclic voltammetric experiments, which can also be adapted to a conventional dc polarograph by replacing its ramp source. (MLH)

Addresses solution nonmetal determinations on a fundamental level. Characterizes research in this area of chemical instrumentation. Discusses the fundamental limitations of nonmetal atomic spectrometry, the status of nonmetals and atomic spectroscopic techniques, and current directions in solution nonmetal determinations. (CW)

Describes a procedure for teaching undergraduate instrumental analysis laboratories to help minimize student confusion about the instruments. Handouts are distributed prior to the experiments and a thorough discussion of the instruments is given at the beginning of the experiment, followed by a demonstration of the instrument by the instructor.…

Describes an undergraduate analytical chemistry course that utilizes instrument modules, which show how the key parts of an instrument fit together and contribute to the overall operation of the instrument. (MLH)

Describes an undergraduate chemistry laboratory course designed to acquaint the students with the major laboratory instruments, the chemical literature, and methods for writing effective laboratory reports. (MLH)

Describes a course which used a student project approach and was designed to replace traditional instrumental analysis. Presents the criteria used for project selection and gives examples of student projects in 1974. (GS)

Describes a course designed to provide college juniors and seniors with maximum theoretical and practical exposure to every available analytical instrument. (GS)

The Laboratory Structure and Task Analysis Inventory (LAI) is an instrument designed to facilitate the analysis of laboratory investigations in secondary school science. It yields a quantitative picture of the kinds of activities required of a student in performing laboratory investigations. The report includes guidelines for the use of the…

The Munby system for coding classroom interaction is an observation system constructed to study the intellectual consequences of varying kinds of science teaching behaviors. The initial use of the system called for making judgments about small portions of teaching, arbitrarily determined from a transcript of the teaching in question. Recent work…