Demonstrates that good values of the ratio of the principal specific heats of a gas can be obtained with a relatively simple apparatus. Describes the basic processes involved and the apparatus. (AIM)

Presents the idea that cloud chambers can be used by students as an experimental tool enabling them to conduct their own investigations on radiation. Provides detail regarding the construction of a cloud chamber and suggestions for student assignments that involve the cloud chamber. (DDR)

This book, addressed to students for their independent use as well as to teachers as a supplement to the standard texts, contains nearly 100 practical science experiments that cover a wide range of subjects at different grade and ability levels. It is designed to involve students in active scientific experimentation, demonstrations, and projects…

This Chemistry-Materials Laboratory Project Book, assembled through a survey of science instructors in vocational-technical schools in Connecticut, is intended to meet a variety of needs. It can serve as an idea book, with the instructor taking from it as needed and adding or substituting material related to class interests; as a guide book for…

This Physics Laboratory Project Book, assembled through a survey of science instructors in vocational-technical schools in Connecticut, is an extension of the Chemistry-Materials Laboratory Project Book (see note) and is intended to meet a variety of needs. It can serve as an idea book, with the instructor taking from it as needed and adding or…

Describes four physics experiments including "Investigation of Box Resonances Using a Micro"; "A Direct Reading Wattmeter, DC or AC"; "Exercises in the Application of Ohm's Law"; and "Hysteresis on Gas Discharges." Discusses procedures, instrumentation, and analysis in each example. (CW)

Discusses the importance of teaching about enzymes in chemistry. Mentions several applications of enzyme technology to other fields. Describes an experiment involving the immobilization of yeast cells as a biocatalyst for the ethanol production from glucose. Argues for more biotechnology to be integrated into basic chemistry courses. (TW)

Describes the physics of an experiment in which an air wedge is formed between two glass plates inclined at a small angle by means of a thin spacer. Implications for instruction are noted. (JN)

Six secondary school teachers describe their most successful earth science investigations. They include various outdoor field activities, road-map reading skills, student-prepared and conducted investigations, and use of several materials for studying volcanoes. (JN)

Shows how the use of pulleys can add a new direction to experiments that demonstrate forces. Procedures used and typical student results are included. (JN)

Discusses a laboratory exercise (suitable for the day before spring vacation) involving use of a hard-boiled egg to stimulate student responses to questions on the effect of adding salt to the water, formation of iron sulfide, ease of peeling, and gas laws. Additional experiments are included. (BC)

Proposes a format for submitting 50-minute experiments suitable for high school beginning chemistry classes to this journal for a new feature section. (CS)

Describes an experiment in which chemistry students determine the efficiency of a laboratory burner used to heat water. The reaction is assumed to be the complete combustion of methane, CH4. The experiment is appropriate for secondary school chemistry students familiar with heats of reaction and simple calorimetry. Contains pre-laboratory and…

Explains the allium test in which roots are excised from onion bulblets grown in aqueous solutions of a test agent. Root tips are then isolated and stained with aceto-orcein, and chromosomal aberrations are microscopically observed. (Author/AIM)

Thermochromism is the reversible change of color of a solid when heated or cooled. Describes the preparation of thermochromic compounds that exhibit sharp thermochromic transitions. (DKM)