Describes an experiment simulating a real-life structure elucidation problem through isolation, characterization, and chemical transformation of an "unknown," naturally occurring monoterpene, with extensive use being made of spectroscopy and aided by biogenetic considerations. Information given to students, procedures, results, and discussion of…

An Osmette A model 5002 automatic osmometer is used to characterize different drugs, diluents, and adulterants commonly encountered in samples of forensic interest, permitting rapid determinations with good reproducibility and use by large numbers of students with little training. Includes background information, procedures, and typical students…

Reviews the development of solid-state physics. Topics include phase transitions, materials science, superconductivity, and superfluidity. (JN)

Reviews four science curriculum materials. "Human Issues in Science" presents social consequences of science and technological developments. "Experiences in Science" contains duplicating masters to supplement basic science programs. "Outdoor Areas as Learning Laboratories" includes activities for local environments. "The Science Cookbook" uses…

Described is the use of analogy in teaching abstract chemical concepts. A foreign universe is postulated and nuts, bolts, and washers play the roles of atoms and molecules in this universe. (DS)

Described is an advanced undergraduate laboratory experiment in which radio-frequency transitions between molecular hyperfine structure states may be observed. Aspects of the quantum theory applied to the analysis of this physical system, are discussed. (Authors/BT)

Describes an activity that demonstrates among the following: diffusion; cohesion and adhesion; properties of surface tension which include wicking, hydrophilic, and hydrophobic molecular behaviors; and break up of fat clusters by liquid dishwashing detergent. (DDR)

Describes a self-instructional assignment approach to the teaching of advanced enzymology. Presents an assignment that offers a means of teaching enzymology to students that exposes them to modern computer-based techniques of analyzing protein structure and relates structure to enzyme function. (JRH)

Proposed is a more didactic version of the electronic periodic table than is being used. The background and use of the numeric system is detailed and illustrated. (CW)

Discussed is the importance of valence bond theory on the quantum-mechanical theory of chemical structure and the nature of the chemical bond. Described briefly are early VB theory, development of VB theory, modern versions, solid-state applications, models, treatment in textbooks, and flaws in criticisms of valence bond theory. (KR)

Presents a didactic model to improve the teaching/learning process in the representation of Lewis structures. Places special emphasis on the calculation and reduction of formal charges, and in the representation of molecules in which the central atom has expanded its valence shell. (MVL)

Gives a brief account of fluoropolymers as an important part of polymer chemistry and attempts to make the topic relevant to the secondary school audience. Provides general characteristics and applications for fluoropolymers. (MVL)

Discussed is an extension of the conventional method for studying the organometallic chemistry of transition metals that may be useful to show how the various existing types of low-valence complexes can be constructed. This method allows students to design new types of complexes that may still be nonexistent. (CW)

Shows that two theories of stereochemistry were very different theories, grounded in different assumptions and were intended to explain different phenomena. Presents the original theories and later developments which caused a blending of the theories. (Author/MVL)

Molecular biology is defined and its status in secondary schools and colleges is discussed. Employment prospects in molecular biology in Britain are described. (CW)