We report the design of a low-cost electrochemical workstation and open-source graphical user interface capable of performing a variety of electrochemical methods in an undergraduate teaching laboratory. The instrument--based on the popular Arduino microcontroller board--can be constructed from common components for $40 USD. The modular design of…

Discusses the nature of Fourier transform mass spectrometry and its unique combination of high mass resolution, high upper mass limit, and multichannel advantage. Examines its operation, capabilities and limitations, applications (ion storage, ion manipulation, ion chemistry), and future applications and developments. (JN)

Reviews applications of laser methods to analytical problems, selecting examples from multiphoton ionization and fluorescence analysis. Indicates that laser methodologies promise to improve dramatically the detection of trace substances embedded in "real" matrices, giving the analyst a most powerful means for determining the composition of…

Examines the controversy surrounding the validity and interpretation of electron microscope images. (DS)

The design and use of an inexpensive thermistor thermometer is described. In addition to providing a rugged thermometer, using the instruments offers an opportunity to have students become familiar with new principles and techniques, such as principles of thermistors, the Wheatstone bridge, and the concept of calibration. (JN)

Background information, procedures, and results are provided for an experiment in which students: (1) construct an immobilized penicillinase electrode; (2) evaluate electron response as a function of penicillin concentration; and (3) study effects of solvent compositions, ionic strength, and equilibrium time upon electrode response. (JN)