This undergraduate organic laboratory exercise involves the sulfuric acid-catalyzed conversion of waste vegetable oil into biodiesel. The acid-catalyzed method, although inherently slower than the base-catalyzed methods, does not suffer from the loss of product or the creation of emulsion producing soap that plagues the base-catalyzed methods when…

In the past decade, traditional classroom teaching models have been transformed in order to better promote active learning and learner engagement. "Implementation and Critical Assessment of the Flipped Classroom Experience" seeks to capture the momentum of non-traditional teaching methods and provide a necessary resource for individuals…

Examined is the development of resistance and secondary pest outbreaks and disease vectors. Two examples are considered in depth. A list of 42 references is included. (CW)

Smaller amounts of materials are used in organic chemistry experiments as a means of improving air quality in the laboratory. Presents a preliminary study of the emissions from selected processes and the mixing of these emissions within the laboratory atmosphere. (JN)

Smaller amounts of materials are used in organic chemistry experiments as a means of improving air quality in the laboratory. Outlines benefits from this approach and describes two representative experiments in detail. These experiments are the Cannizzaro reaction and preparation of an aromatic nitrile. (JN)

The effects of neurotoxins on the development of the central and peripheral nervous systems are discussed. Organophosphates, carbamates, organic solvents, and dioxin are highlighted. The effects of long- and short-term exposure are described. (CW)

The goal of many colleges is to make the organic chemistry laboratory completely flameless by using electric heating equipment. Benefits of eliminating the Bunsen burner, electrical heating equipment and accessories, hazards remaining in flameless laboratories, and design standards related to laboratory liability are the major topic areas…

Reported are the results of a study of organic chemistry courses at 33 different undergraduate colleges and universities. Details of the site visits including lecture and laboratory components of the courses are provided. (CW)

The ideas behind electrophilic addition to alkenes, and electrophilic substitution in benzene derivatives are discussed. Teaching these concepts to secondary school students is stressed. Five main points useful at this age level are summarized. (Author/CW)

Discusses the advent of microscale experiments within undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories mainly resulting from environmental safety concerns involving waste disposal. Considers the cost savings in purchasing less reagents and chemicals, the typical glassware and apparatus, the reduced hazards from elimination of open flames, and other…

Reported are the results of a survey conducted to identify which analytical methods are most commonly used in nonacademic analytical laboratories. Laboratory supervisors' ratings of various aspects of chemical education are included. (CW)