This article focuses on the learning of the Lewis representation at the transition from high school to university, in France. Indeed, this notion is taught both in high school and in the first year of higher education but with different methods, which seems to hinder the learners. In this work, we observe 11th grade and higher education classes…

We introduced a microfluidic paper-based analytical device ([mu]PAD) to undergraduates majoring in nutrition education using a modified acid-base titration on paper microzones. After designing experiments for sample analysis using micro acid-base titration, students fabricated the devices and implement the experiment as designed. Then they…

In this work, a versatile and user-friendly selection of stereolithography (STL) files and computer-aided design (CAD) models are shared to assist educators and students in the production of simple and inexpensive 3D printed filter fluorometer instruments. These devices are effective resources for supporting active learners in the exploration of…

The antioxidative capacity of phytochemical compounds is often discussed in life science courses (to prevent or slow cancer) and food science courses (to prevent the oxidation of sensitive ingredients). Thus, we developed a laboratory experiment where the photochemical reaction of lightsticks is used to qualitatively demonstrate the antioxidative…

Research shows that women are entering the field of physics at a faster rate than the field of chemistry through bachelor's and doctoral degrees. However, STEM studies primarily compare women to men or examine them as a single entity. Therefore, a paucity of research exists that examines what may differentiate women in certain critical and…

Explores the periodic trends in the entropy of elements. Focuses on concepts understandable to high school and beginning chemists. Concludes that entropy values increase with a period and generally decrease toward the center of a period. (JRH)

Summarizes selected articles from the journal "Nature" that relate to the theme of "Chemistry Keeps Us Clean" in its broadest sense. (MM)

Presents the Chemical Concepts Inventory (CCI), an inventory that faculty can use to judge the extent of several common alternate conceptions among their students. Demonstrates that students come to general chemistry with a variety of the alternate conceptions described in the research literature. Shows that a traditional general chemistry course…

Presents a modification of the "Ammonia Fountain" demonstration that requires only a common glass or plastic syringe and concentrated ammonia water. (JRH)

Describes the construction of a low-cost handmade apparatus for the electrolysis of water that is durable enough to endure rough treatment. (JRH)

Presents a problem that serves as an analogy for teaching combustion analysis. (JRH)

Presents a test that can measure nitrate nitrogen ions at about 0.1 mg/L using concentration. Uses inexpensive accessible materials and can be used by amateur environmentalists for monitoring water nitrate levels. (JRH)

Discusses the proper place for hydrogen in the periodic table. (NB)

Discusses flaws in the reasoning behind a "new system" proposed for rounding numbers that was published in a previous issue of this journal. Concludes that the new system should be used only for numbers in which the nonzero digits following a dropped 5 have some significance. (JRH)

Presents experiments that introduce students to the myriad properties of zeolites using the sodium form of zeolite A (Na-A) from laundry detergent. Experiments include extracting Na-A from detergent, water softening properties, desiccant properties, ion-exchange properties, and Zeolite HA as a dehydration catalyst. (JRH)