As an alternative to the traditional metallocene laboratory targets, students synthesize Cp[subscript 2]TiCl[subscript 2], bis([eta][superscript 5]-cyclopentadienyl)dichloridotitanium(IV), from the mildly moisture-sensitive cis-TiCl[subscript 4](thf)[subscript 2]. Air-free handling techniques are emphasized, but the (mostly) air-stable,…

A simplified theoretical explanation of dispersion in dielectric materials has been given and experiments have been carried out on two liquids, namely, distilled water and sunflower oil. The appendix contains a detailed description of the construction of a homemade spectrometer and hollow prism and an assessment of its suitability for the above…

Volume phase holographic (VPH) optical elements have made a major contribution to Raman spectroscopy by providing notch filters, and VPH gratings that provide remarkable performance advantages over previous technologies. Holographic notch filters have eliminated Rayleigh scattered laser light from single monochromators, thereby contributing to the…

The impact of array detectors in the field of Raman spectroscopy and all low-light-level spectroscopic techniques is examined. The high sensitivity of array detectors has allowed Raman spectroscopy to be used to detect compounds at part per million concentrations and to perform Raman analyses at advantageous wavelengths.

Explains the physical principles which result in various colors of the sky. Topics addressed include: blueness, mystical properties of water vapor, ozone, fluctuation theory of scattering, variation of purity and brightness, and red sunsets and sunrises. (DH)

Describes how to teach the light spectrum to students using hands-on activities in a physical science class at the middle school level. Explains how to build a spectroscope and lists required materials. Provides an internet address for sciLinks. (YDS)

Thirteen questions about light and spectra are provided. Although they do not have clearcut answers, the questions highlight matters about scientific methodology, which is educationally important. Suggests that students perform experiments similar to those performed by Newton, Wollaston, and Fraunhofer. (JN)

Provides instructions for producing a spectrum in the secondary science classroom. Offers suggestions for using the spectrum and discusses how to make a rainbow using a garden hose or houseplant sprayer. (JN)

Uses a compact disc (CD) as a grating in spectroscopy experiments. Suggests using the CD with fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent light bulbs, incandescent filament light bulbs, and sodium and mercury vapor lamps. Discusses environmental and economic aspects of fluorescent lighting. (MVL)

Instructions accompanied by illustrations for building a low-cost demonstration spectroscope are presented. Materials and tools are pictured and labeled. Cost is estimated at five dollars (in 1980) and twelve hours of work are required to build the spectroscope. (SA)

Describes a procedure for modifying an interferometer which compensates for distortions when making interferograms. (SL)

Discusses the properties of laser light, reviews types of lasers, presents operating principles, and considers mechanical aspects of laser light production. Applications reviewed include spectroscopy, photochemical reaction initiation, and investigation of biological processes involving porphyrins. (JM)

The correct usage of such terminology as "Rayleigh scattering,""Rayleigh lines,""Raman lines," and "Tyndall scattering" is resolved during an historical excursion through the physics of light-scattering by gas molecules. (Author/JN)

Describes the current understanding of the structure and evolution of the white dwarf stars that was gained as a result of the increasingly sensitive and detailed astronomical observations coupled with calculations of the properties of matter under extreme conditions. (Author/GA)