Differentiates between problems, exercises and algorithms. Discusses the role of algorithms in solving problems and exercises in chemistry. Suggests that very real differences exist between solving problems and exercises, and that problem solving steps can be and should be taught in chemistry education. (TW)

Describes a spreadsheet computer program which can be used with an Apple Macintosh computer to perform a multitude of calculations. Discusses two types of calculations taught in general chemistry. Demonstrates how to use the spreadsheet to calculate mass percent and the formula of a compound. (TW)

Reviews the history of alchemy including personalities and methods. Discusses the philosophy associated with various early chemists and alchemists. Attempts to show that it was not unreasonable for ancient alchemists to believe in the possibility of transmutation. (CW)

Proposes an educational model for chemistry PhD education that emphasizes productivity and centrality of research. Supports greater development of communication skills and suggests a four-year timeline. Listed is a curriculum usable for most sciences. (ML)

Reports on the session at the New England Association of Chemistry Teachers meeting on chemistry laboratories in March 1987. Speakers included Leonard K. Nash and Audrey Champagne on values and goals; Howard Ende on regulation; Stanley Smith and Jerry Bell on the uses of computers; and Miles Pickering on the human dimension. (CW)

Discusses a method to use several diffraction gratings at one time with one hydrogen bulb. Describes the experimental set up, background, and results. (CW)

Reviews three softwre packages: "Molecular Graphics on the Apple Microcomputer, Enhanced Version 2.0"; "Molecular Graphics on the IBM PC Microcomputer"; and "Molecular Animator, IBM PC Version." Packages are rated based on ease of use, subject matter content, pedagogic value, and student reaction. (CW)

Describes a simple redox reaction that occurs between potassium permanganate and oxalic acid that can be used to prepare an interesting disappearing ink for demonstrating kinetics for introductory chemistry. Discusses laboratory procedures and factors that influence disappearance times. (CW)

Recounts the problems of a high school chemistry program in safely storing and disposing of chemicals. Describes the school's new system of inventorying and dating all chemicals, using warning stickers, isolating certain hazardous substances, and cataloging references to the use of each chemical and its container. (TW)

Addresses the history and philosophy of accident prevention in chemistry laboratories. Presents the results of a statewide survey done in Colorado designed to investigate the etiology of academic chemistry laboratory accidents in institutions of higher education. Patterns of accident characteristics identified by the student are discussed. (TW)

Summarizes some of the contributions to society made by women who have received the Garvan Medal. Addresses accomplishments in nutrition, industry, biochemistry, government, and group research projects. Includes anecdotal descriptions of some of the women made by colleges, authors, and students. (TW)

Describes two classroom chemistry demonstrations which focus on the descriptive chemistry of bromine and iodine. Outlines the chemicals and equipment needed, experimental procedures, and discussion of one demonstration of the oxidation states of bromine and iodine, and another demonstration of the oxidation states of iodine. (TW)

Describes a lesson in which fifth graders made observations of candles. Discusses the progress of the lesson and the necessity of instructing students in what and how to watch and measure. Stresses that this can be easily accomplished inexpensively with imagination. (CW)

Reviews three computer software packages for chemistry education including "Osmosis and Diffusion" and "E.M.E. Titration Lab" for Apple II and "Simplex-V: An Interactive Computer Program for Experimental Optimization" for IBM PC. Summary ratings include ease of use, content, pedagogic value, student reaction, and…

Describes five ways that high school students explain a chemical change. Discusses the differences in conceptual understanding of the students based upon their responses to questions about simple reactions. Presents additional classifications of conceptions of chemical reactions done by other researchers. (TW)