The number of experimentally derived structures of cellular components is rapidly expanding, and this phenomenon is accompanied by the development of a new semiotic system for teaching. The infographic approach is shifting from a schematic toward a more realistic representation of cellular components. By realistic we mean artist-prepared or…

Discusses the use of property diagrams as an instructional tool to help students understand and visualize important, complex thermodynamic relationships. Also discusses the approach used in preparing these diagrams, which were computer-generated as part of graduate students' research. (JN)

Explores the subject of fractal geometry focusing on the occurrence of fractal-like shapes in the natural world. Topics include iterated functions, chaos theory, the Lorenz attractor, logistic maps, the Mandelbrot set, and mini-Mandelbrot sets. Provides appropriate computer algorithms, as well as further sources of information. (JJK)

The use of the microcomputer in an interactive graphics mode offers exciting possibilities for mathematics and science education. Errors made with graphs are used to introduce ideas of what should be taught. Both understanding equations and graphing utilities are stressed. (MNS)

Discusses the use of orbital shapes for instructional purposes, emphasizing that differences between polar, contour, and three-dimensional plots must be made clear to students or misconceptions will occur. Also presents three-dimensional contour surfaces for the seven 4f atomic orbitals of hydrogen and discusses their computer generation. (JN)

Describes 10 computer programs used to draw diagrams usually drawn on chalkboards, such as addition of three vectors, vector components, range of a projectile, lissajous figures, beats, isotherms, Snell's law, waves passing through a lens, magnetic field due to Helmholtz coils, and three curves. Several programming tips are included. (JN)

A Macintosh microcomputer and MacPaint program can be used to quickly make charts of structural formulas that fill standard-sized paper with a minimum of instruction, and smaller drawings or structures or fragments may be inserted into text composed with a word processing program. Shows how this is done. (JN)

Describes graphical solutions of equations for stirred-tank reactors in series; data management software for producing and searching customized mass spectral libraries; least squares and chromatography programs; a low-cost data acquisition system for Apple microcomputers; nuclear magnetic resonance interpretation with graphics; chemical bonding…

Procedures for displaying computer-generated text and graphics to a large audience are inexpensive when a Fresnel-mirror projector is used. Although small liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) can be easily projected, large LCDs require some modification (which is described). Other devices with LCD displays (oscilloscopes, televisions, and pulse-height…

Describes: Apple stereochemistry program; CNDO/2-INDO mini-computer calculations; direct linear plot procedure for enzyme kinetics calculations; construction of nonlinear Scatchard plots; simulation of mass spectral envelopes of polyisotopic elements; graphics with a dot-matrix printer; MINC computer in the physical chemistry laboratory; hallway…

Presented is an example of this use of spreadsheet software. The basic case is considered with an extension and suggestions for other applications. Emphasized is the use of this method at the introductory level. (CW)

Liquid crystal displays are currently utilized to convey information via graphic displays. Presents experiments and explanations that employ the concept of liquid crystals to learn concepts related to the various states of matter, electric and magnetic forces, refraction of light, and optics. Discusses applications of liquid crystal technology.…

Discusses three trends in computer-oriented chemistry instruction: (1) availability of interfaces to integrate computers with experiments; (2) impact of the development of higher resolution graphics and greater memory capacity; and (3) role of videodisc technology on computer assisted instruction. Includes program listings for auto-titration and…

Describes how color graphics are built up on microcomputer displays and how a range of colors can be produced. Discusses the logic of color formation, noting that adding/subtracting color can be conveniently demonstrated. Color generating techniques in physics (resistor color coding and continuous spectrum production) are given with program…

Describes a method to produce 35mm color slides directly from the display screen of a computer terminal using techniques and equipment available to most teachers and researchers. Discusses the hardware and software needed, procedures, some of the problems encountered, and the potential uses of this method. (CW)