Discussed are the potential hazards associated with nitric acid, inorganic and organic nitrate salts, alkyl nitrates, acyl nitrates, aliphatic nitro compounds, aromatic nitro compounds, and nitration reactions. (CW)

This manual was written as an aid to teaching assistants (TAs) who conduct the laboratory portions of life science courses at the University of Washington. In general, this manual does not present specific factual material. Rather, it offers suggestions on how to handle various teaching situations and provides a framework to use in many different…

To avoid a tedious task for recording temperature, a computer was used for calculating the heat of crystallization for the compound sodium thiosulfate. Described are the computer-interfacing procedures. Provides pictures of laboratory equipment and typical graphs from experiments. (YP)

Reports a modification of a simple method previously described for determining enthalpies of sublimation and comments on some of the method's inherent limitations. (Author/GS)

Describes techniques for studying hand specimens of polished rock slabs. (SL)

Described are three experiments on the photometric, Gaussian, and image-forming properties of a helium-neon gas laser. Details of the experimental method and typical calculations with diagrams and graphs are provided. (YP)

Describes the experimental arrangement for x-ray analysis of samples which involves the following: the radioisotopic x-ray disk source; a student-built fluorescence chamber; the energy dispersive x-ray detector, linear amplifier and bias supply; and a multichannel pulse height analyzer. (GS)

Small-scale chemistry employs a modern design philosophy and small, inexpensive plastic apparatus to create a learning laboratory that fosters creativity, invention, and problem solving. This article describes the characteristics of the small-scale activities. A n-solutions chemical reaction matrix is provided with examples of classroom use. (YP)

Discusses a group project for a physics laboratory using various pendulums. Presents diagrams of pendulums, describes how to make a pendulum, and provides suggestions for guiding students in the laboratory. (YP)

Introduced are two experiments: radon detection method shows real data using vacuum cleaner, soft toilet paper, and Geiger-Muller tube; critical potentials measurement describes the operation of Teltron tube with VELA. (YP)

Provides a description and evaluation of a university's recently instituted physics learning center. Photos and text reveal some uses of the facility. (Author/CP)

Demonstrates the inverted image, the chromatic aberration, and the floaters of the eye using an opaque 35mm film container with a small pinhole poked through the bottom. Describes the observation of Haidinger's brushes using polarized light. (YP)

Describes an air track experiment demonstrating the transfer of mechanical energy from elastic potential to kinetic. Discusses four methods for calculating energy stored in the spring. Included are pictures, typical data, and graphs. (YP)

Describes four science laboratory, consumer oriented activities including: milk, fireproofing clothing, acetic acid, and paints. (SL)