The role of phosphates in environmental issues and in detergents is discussed. Experimental procedures are described for colorimetric determination of orthophosphates. (TS)

Describes and compares procedures and results of determination of colorimetric, potentiometric, and amperometric endpoints of an oxidative titration of arsenite by iodine. (TS)

Reviews the advantages of computer simulated environments for experiments, referring in particular to acid-base titrations. Includes pre-lab instructions and a sample computer printout of a student's use of an acid-base simulation. Ten references. (PR)

Presents some aspects of concept learning theory (what concepts are and how to analyze them) and proposes ways to improve the teaching of concepts in introductory chemistry courses. Emphasizes the lecture format, although ideas presented are applicable to other teaching methods. (Author/JN)

Clarifies misunderstanding of Millikan's experiment measuring charge on electrons. Most books describing the experiment indicate ionization of air in the apparatus caused liberation of electrons, and that these electrons were picked up by oil droplets. However, in Millikan's discussion, it is stated clearly that ions were attached to oil droplets.…

A Chemical and Engineering News survey shows that among chief executives in 20 U.S. chemical firms, 73 percent have some technical training; 53 percent of these have bachelors in chemistry or chemical engineering, substantially increased from a decade ago. Comments on the trend toward more technically trained management are provided. (Author/JN)

Discusses a conceptual scheme which may be used to unify the mathematical approach in chemistry. Includes sample problems demonstrating flaws in the present treatment of dimensional analysis, suggesting that such instruction should focus on relationships. Also considers who should teach rate concept and dimension analysis. (JN)

The continuous measurement of oxygen consumption in an enzymatic reaction is a frequent experimental fact and extremely important in the enzymatic activity of oxygenase. An electrochemical system, based on a polarographic method, has been developed to monitor the oxygen uptake. The system developed and electrode used are described. (JN)

For colleges/universities, rapid instrument development poses a dilemma, since laboratory teaching instruments rapidly become obsolete and money available for replacing them is dwindling. Discusses role of sophisticated computer simulations, nontraditional educational materials, and part-time work-study opportunities as possible solutions to the…

Suggested guidelines and representative experiments for a one-semester introductory polymer chemistry laboratory course are provided. Experiments, which provide students with both synthetic and characterization experiences, require a minimum of special equipment and student skills. Includes list of 83 experiments, demonstrations, and reference…

Discusses five areas in which chemistry/engineering majors encounter difficulties in technical writing. These include literature searching, plagiarism, organization, synthesis, and rewriting. Also discusses role of technical faculty in helping students solve their writing problems. (JN)

Reports research into the design and application of physical and mental practice strategies for the development of laboratory psychomotor skills of freshman chemistry students (N=360). Design of instruction materials used (focusing skills using balance, pipet, and buret and skills in quantitative volumetric analysis), evaluation of strategies, and…

Investigated relationship between students (N=1008) preparation in high school physics/chemistry and success in college chemistry as measured by a final letter grade of B- or better. Results indicate that most well-prepared students (defined as having had previous experience in chemistry, physics, and mathematics) do well in general college…