On equilibrium properties of aqueous solutions of sulfuric acid, Julius Thomsen has marked that the heat evolved on diluting liquid sulfuric acid with water is a continuous function of the water used, and excluded absolutely the acceptance of definite hydrates as existing in the solution. Information about thermochemical measurement, a discussion…

An experiment is performed to measure the relative gas-phase basicities of a series of five amino acids to compare the results to literature values. The experiments use the kinetic method for deriving ion thermochemistry and allow students to perform accurate measurements of thermodynamics in a relatively short time.

A comprehensive theoretical description of thermal protein unfolding coupled to ligand binding is presented. The thermodynamic concepts are independent of the method used to monitor protein unfolding but a differential scanning calorimetry is being used as a tool for examining the unfolding process.

The potency of heat in gases is measured by the application of a computer and the LabWorks interaction, while the speed of sound in gases is determined by an instrument called Kundt's tube. This unique and accurate procedure is repeatable, and greatly reduces data acquisition time.

The importance of the mathematical notion of concavity in relation to thermodynamics is stressed and it is shown how it can be useful in increasing the enthusiasm of physics' students for their mathematics' courses.

A study demonstrates the thermal degradation of two heat-sensitive polymers, namely, polystyrene and poly (methyl methacrylate). The experiment described in the study introduces undergraduate students to polymer structure as well as the application of spectroscopic techniques to the solution of structural problems.

The ever-increasing global demand for energy has sparked renewed interest within the engineering community in the study of sustainable alternative energy sources. This paper discusses a power generation system which uses biomass as "fuel" to illustrate the concepts taught to students taking a graduate level chemical engineering process…

Self-assembly or spontaneous assembly is a process in which materials build themselves without assistance. This process plays a central role in the construction of biological structures and materials such as cells, viruses, and bone, and also in abiotic processes like phase transitions and crystal formation. The principles of self-assembly help…

Chemical reactions induced by light have been utilized for synthesizing highly strained, thermodynamically unstable compounds, which are inaccessible through non-photochemical methods. Photochemical cycloaddition reactions, especially those leading to the formation of four-membered rings, constitute a convenient route to compounds that are…

Suggests that physical chemistry courses should emphasize experimental aspects and practical applications. (MLH)

Describes the "coordinated polymeric model," which yields more accurate energy calculations than the "ionic model" for compounds which exhibit considerable covalency. The dichotomy between ionic and covalent bonding is thus largely broken down for solids which are nonmolecular in the crystalline state. (MLH)

Outlines the basic engine design and nomenclature, develops some relations between the state parameters of the rubber-band system, defines engine efficiency, and compares the Archibald engine with the Carnot engine. (GS)

Shortcomings of the usual definition of energy efficiency are identified. Suggestions are general for better use of fossil fuels. Studies done by the American Physics Society (APS) are discussed and recommendations made for an improved definition of energy efficiency are described. (Author/EB)

Gives a brief descriptive review of the life of Albert Einstein, his scientific papers and his valuable contributions to physics. (BA)