Outlines five simple and inexpensive methods for students to use in identifying unknown substances. Provides a table of general solubility data for ions, a suggested list of unknown substances that can be tested using the methods described, and some prelaboratory information. (TW)

Uses capillarity as an example of a problem in physics which has been explained mathematically in two different ways. Argues that only one explanation is indeed valid and demonstrates this opinion through experimentation and discussions. Proposes that mathematics should be used in physics as a tool to predict, not to explain. (TW)

Describes the Heat Exchanger Network Synthesis (HENS) program used at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (Massachusetts) as an aid to teaching the energy integration step in process design. Focuses on the benefits of the computer graphics used in the program to increase the speed of generating and changing networks. (TW)

Focuses on the development of a pilot unit for use in an advanced separations process laboratory in an effort to develop experiments on such processes as reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, adsorption, and chromatography. Discusses reverse osmosis principles, the experimental system design, and some experimental studies. (TW)

Discusses the effects of fiber-optics and other new technologies on communication technology courses. Explores several of the technologies that are applicable to this type of course. Describes how various applications can be presented and highlighted using inexpensive classroom demonstrations. (TW)

Contains the 1987 directory of member institutions in the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). Includes the name of the institution, information about its officers and its faculty, the number of students, graduate degree requirements, opportunities made to graduate students, types of research, and research expenditures for each of…

Reports on a study to test the effectiveness of a cognitive motivational model of course selection patterns to explain the continued participation of men and women in college chemistry courses. Results indicated that a person's belief about their ability was the major factor in deciding to continue in chemistry. (Author/TW)

Provides the syllabus for an undergraduate course on "Technology and Society" offered at the University of Missouri (Kansas City). Includes a general description of the course goals, required media log, and student mini-projects. Contains the list of assigned readings and a weekly breakdown of topics and assignments. (TW)

Provides a brief review of the literature concerning the content of chemistry courses for allied health students. Contains the content outline of a two-semester course offered at Hope College (Michigan) and discusses the rationale for organizing the course for this audience. (TW)

Discusses some interesting kitchen chemistry experiments. Describes the use of baking aerators and baking powders in an inexpensive experiment. Outlines several demonstrations to follow up the experiment and to illustrate other chemical principles. (TW)

Contains the preliminary report on the study examining the relationship between education and professional practice in science engineering and public policy (SEPP) undertaken by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The study focused on academic programs that prepared students at the postgraduate level for careers in the…

Provides an index to all major articles and "Noted in the Current Journals" columns published in "Mercury" during 1977-1986. Articles are referenced under subject categories, listed in chronological order starting with the most recent. (TW)

Discusses the advantages of conducting online computer searches of "Chemical Abstracts." Introduces the logical sequences involved in searching an online database. Explains Boolean logic, proximity operators, truncation, searchable fields, and command language, as they relate to the use of online searches in undergraduate chemistry…

Describes several techniques to help students visualize the principles of polymer chemistry. Outlines demonstrations using simple materials (such as pop-it beads, thread, and wire) to illustrate the size of macromolecules, the composition of copolymers, and the concept of molecular mass. (TW)

Reports on a study of Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) programs that were considered to be of outstanding quality. Although programs (and individuals) are not identified, the article addresses their general geographic locations, departmental characteristics, curricula, lab courses, facilities, and their use of computers. (TW)