Determined if spatial training (independent of classroom, laboratories, and instructors) would improve achievement of organic chemistry students (N=67) at a small liberal arts college and if advanced chemistry students could benefit from such training. The spatial training program systematically developed skills required to use model kits…

Investigated application of binomial statistics to equilibrium distribution of ester systems by employing gas chromatography to verify the mathematical model used. Discusses model development and experimental techniques, indicating the model enables a straightforward extension to symmetrical polyfunctional esters and presents a mathematical basis…

Discusses use and applications of computer technology in chemistry, indicating that the importance of the computer has not been fully realized in the realm of organic synthesis. Includes discussions of various computer programs and systems currently used, supplemented by tables highlighting, for example, features of major computer-aided synthesis…

Reports on an explosion that occurred using Tollens' reagent, emphasizing that students should prepare the reagent immediately before use and discard it immediately after use by flushing it down the drain. States that under no conditions should Tollens' reagent be stored. (Author/JN)

Describes 14 experiments that illustrate, via color changes, a broad scope of fundamental phenomena in polymer science. The experiments, suitable for high school through graduate level, require only test tubes, filter paper, heat source (hot plate or hair drier), and ultra-violet light source. (JN)

A study investigated the effectiveness of stereochemistry lap-dissolve projection as an aid to students in developing three-dimensional imaging and whether certain visual orientation tasks could be correlated with aptitude. Students found the slides helpful, and a modest correlation of achievement and visual skills was found. (MSE)

Following a comparison of chain-growth and step-growth polymerization, focuses on the latter process by describing requirements for high molecular weight, step-growth polymerization kinetics, synthesis and molecular weight distribution of some linear step-growth polymers, and three-dimensional network step-growth polymers. (JN)

Relates the study of geometric forms to the chemical structures of organic compounds, discussing isomerism and the occurrence of regular solids in chemical phenomena. (CS)

Describes a 9-hour organic chemistry experiment that involves the isolation of (+)-limonene from orange peels and conversion of this product into (-)-carvone. (CS)

Presents a new version of the LHASA computer program specifically designed for use by students in an elementary organic chemistry course. This program presents a new method of teaching chemical synthesis and solving synthetic problems. (CS)

Reports on the recent controversy involving two organic chemistry textbooks. The charge of plagiarism and the court litigations are the object of interest in the chemical community since many prominant scientists are planned as witnesses. (SA)

Advocates teaching of organic reaction mechanisms through the methods which are used in elucidating them. This also provides a useful way of illustrating the theories and methods of physical chemistry. Describes an approach to teaching three reaction mechanisms: substitution in alkanes; addition to alkenes; and ester hydrolysis. (Author/GA)

The value of ethylene, as the organic chemical industry's most important building block, is discussed. The discussion focuses on the source of ethylene, its various forms and functions, and the ways in which the forms are made. (SA)

This experiment is suitable for an integrated laboratory course for senior chemistry majors. It introduces the student to a study of the relative basicity of different proton accepting sites. It serves as an opportunity to learn about nmr techniques and could extend to infrared, as well. (BB)

Reviews a subjective exercise completed by students at the end of each of six units in an introductory organic chemistry course. Argues that instruction should be shaped by Ausubel's concept of meaningful learning. (DDR)