Described is a physical pendulum experiment with variable pivot as an example of maximizing computer benefits in laboratory interfacing. The laboratory procedures using spreadsheet graphics package are discussed. A diagram of the pendulum, basic formulas, and theoretical curve is provided. (YP)

Described is a position transducer used to convert the position of an object into a voltage read by a computer with use of an interface board. The arrangement of the apparatus, electronic circuit, and typical graph displays are presented. Discussed is the instructional use of the transducer. (YP)

Describes a simple circuit based on an inexpensive quad operational amplifier that permits a direct-reading temperature instrument to be constructed using silicon diodes. Encourages the use of this equipment in introductory thermal experiments. (DDR)

Introduces a photogate arrangement using a photo-reflective sensor for air track experiments. Reports that the sensitivity to sunlight can be eliminated and a mechanically more convenient package produced. Shows the mounting, circuit, and usage of the photogate. (YP)

Presented are five examples of the application of computer technology to undergraduate chemistry instruction. Topics include: an interface for kinetic experimentation; theoretical calculations; automation of chemical techniques; searching the chemical literature; and Huckel molecular orbitals. (CW)

Discussed are the construction and uses of a version of a photoelectric colorimeter by students. Included are materials needed and four experiments which use the equipment. Sample results are shown. (CW)

Discussed is a method of measuring the coefficient of linear expansion of a solid. Getting many data points, using a computer program using the least square fit technique, and modifying the apparatus are described. (YP)

The main part of this project involved using a computer, either an Apple or an IBM, as a chart recorder for the infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrophotometers. The computer "reads" these machines and displays spectra on its monitor. The graphs can then be stored for future reference and manipulation. The program to…

Demonstrates a method of measuring the acceleration due to gravity. Provides an illustration of the apparatus and the data analysis. Suggests four different variations of this experiment. (YP)

Year 11 students investigated the real-world problem of whether screws are really brass. It allowed them to use the colorimeter and computer interface in a way that was easily understood and models normal practice in testing laboratories. Screws were dissolved in nitric acid and their absorbance of red light was compared with a standard curve.…

Presented is a simple laboratory set-up for teaching microprocessor-controlled data acquisition as a part of an instrumental analysis course. Discussed are the experimental set-up, experimental procedures, and technical considerations for this technique. (CW)

Four applications of microcomputers in the chemical laboratory are presented. Included are "Mass Spectrometer Interface with an Apple II Computer,""Interfacing the Spectronic 20 to a Computer,""A pH-Monitoring and Control System for Teaching Laboratories," and "A Computer-Aided Optical Melting Point Device." Software, instrumentation, and uses are…

Reviewed are six computer programs which may be useful in teaching college level chemistry. Topics include dynamic data storage in FORTRAN, "KC?DISCOVERER," pH of acids and bases, calculating percent boundary surfaces for orbitals, and laboratory interfacing with PT Nomograph for the Macintosh. (CW)

Described is an activity in which a computer is used to acquire temperature and humidity data useful in investigating transpiration in plants. Materials and procedures are discussed and examples of results are presented. Factors which influence the rate of transpiration are discussed. (CW)

Described is a microcomputer with two detection systems to enable three variables of the puck's motion to be recorded simultaneously: speed, radius of the orbit, and the ongoing time of measurement. Presented are the experimental setup, a discussion of the computer program, and results. (YP)