Presents a comparison of attitudes toward physics and chemistry by 300 eleventh and twelfth grade students. Attitudes toward chemistry were more positive than towards physics; chemistry was considered less masculine, and physics was considered more important. (SL)

Changes, reactions, deductions. Five simple experiments add new skills and excitement to science. (Editor)

Describes the construction of a versatile signal generator suitable for use in cyclic voltammetric experiments, which can also be adapted to a conventional dc polarograph by replacing its ramp source. (MLH)

Discusses Bohr's atomic theory from a chemical, rather than a physical, standpoint. (MLH)

Discusses gel chromatography of metal ions, ligands, and resultant metal complexes; how this method can be used to determine stability constants is considered. (MLH)

Describes a graduate quantum mechanics projects in which students write a computer program that performs ab initio calculations on the electronic structure of a simple molecule. Theoretical potential energy curves are produced. (MLH)

Presents a new approach to an older demonstration involving the reaction of sodium with water. Materials list, procedures, and a discussion of hazard and disposal considerations are included. (DDR)

Describes classroom activities that involve student movement to demonstrate principles of kinetics. This classroom method can be used for any topic related to dynamic processes. The method used in this activity illustrates Brxnsted-Lowry acid-base theory and redox reactions. Takes advantage of analogies between proton and electron transfers. Use…

Describes the constructivist approach and how it can be implemented in a science activity on calcium carbonate, hard water, and the polyphenols extracted from boiling tea bags. (DKM)

Discusses the furnace from a chemical thermodynamics perspective. Examines the enthalpy, entropy, and free energy change for each reaction of importance. These properties are interpreted on the molecular level then used to deduce the conditions necessary for each reaction to occur in its intended direction. Chemical kinetics is also discussed.…

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Committee on Professional Training presented results from an industrial roundtable which showed that one of the key experiences industry seeks in new hires is team problem solving. Undergraduate chemistry education, however, historically stresses individual work. Offers suggestions for improving student learning…

Reports on a series of studies related to seeking a more effective role for laboratory experiences in science instruction. The study addressed the status of laboratory-based instruction in chemistry at the beginning college level. This study should be of value in the continual search to seek effective means of reforming beginning college-level…

Presents an activity in which students create a slogan, sentence, or phrase using the name of an element in its place. Explains the origin of the idea for this activity, provides an extension activity, and a rubric for the oral presentation component. (DDR)

Describes the Science on Wheels program developed by the chemistry department at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez (UPRM). The program combines science demonstrations with grade 7-12 science teacher training in a mobile unit that transfers resources from the UPRM campus to schools around the island. Contains 39 references. (DKM)

Traces the history of the observation of the production of electric sparks and the early history of battery design. Detail is provided about laboratory experiments performed by Robert Bunsen, who spent a great deal of time developing an efficient and comparatively cheap battery. (36 references) (DDR)