In this demonstration of the generation and combustion of acetylene, calcium carbide and water are allowed to react in a latex examination glove. Two student volunteers perform the demonstration with instructor guidance. This safe, popular demonstration, originally intended to illustrate the alkyne family of compounds, can be used with a variety…

Presented is an analysis of think-aloud protocols of graduate students solving several different tasks in organic chemistry. The systems used by these subjects were classified. It was reported that the methodological system was most often used. (CW)

Described is an experiment which illustrates valence isomerization, the trapping of a reactive intermediate and retrosynthetic analysis applied to the Diels-Alder reaction. Included is a background discussion, experimental procedures, and a discussion of the analysis. (CW)

A laboratory experiment designed as a model for studying enzyme activity with a basic spectrometer is presented. Included are background information, experimental procedures, and a discussion of probable results. Stressed is the value of the use of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance in biochemistry. (CW)

Described is an apparatus which can be made for student use in performing organic qualitative analysis. The flask replaces the need for more expensive equipment. Discussed are reagents, equipment preparation, experimental procedures, and sample preparation. (CW)

In this article, background information on the photochemical properties of nucleic acids is provided and an experiment to illustrate this concept is presented. Sample preparation, procedures, and data analysis are discussed. Sample UV absorption spectra are included. (CW)

Described is an experiment in which students are able to synthesize an unnatural compound having the odor and flavor of coconuts. Laboratory equipment, procedures, and analysis of the product are discussed. (CW)

Develops a lab experiment for introductory instrumental analysis that requires interference studies and optimizing of conditions. Notes the analysis of the aspirin is by visible spectrophotometric assay. Gives experimental details and discussion. (MVL)

Classroom demonstrations of selected mechanical properties of polymers are described that can be used to make quantitative measurements. Stiffness, strength, and extensibility are mechanical properties used to distinguish one polymer from another. (KR)

Describes a simple halogenation experiment that can be performed quickly in an open vessel at room temperature with visible light that is appropriate for the beginning weeks of an introductory organic chemistry course. (WRM)

The weak noncovalent interactions between substances, the handshake in the form of electrostatic interactions, van der Waals' interactions or hydrogen bonding is universal to all living and nonliving matter. They significantly influence the molecular and bulk properties and behavior of matter. Their transient nature affects chemical reactions and…

A computational experiment is described for the organic chemistry laboratory that allows students to estimate the relative strengths of the intramolecular hydrogen bonds of usnic and isousnic acids, two related lichen secondary metabolites. Students first extract and purify usnic acid from common lichens and obtain [superscript 1]H NMR and IR…

Describes problems encountered in teaching a problem-centered undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory course. No text is used for this type of course; the students are encouraged to plan their own experimental routes. (MLH)

This unit is one of a group of units written to fit the Certificate of Sixth Year Studies (CSYS) chemistry course, but it could be used with most Sixth Form courses. It includes: (1) background information for teachers with notes on five topics (antifreeze, ethanol production, solvent prices, iron extraction, and paint solvents); (2) a student…

This collection of lessons deals with nutrition in health and medicine and specifically the digestive system and its functions. The primary objective of this collection of lessons is to provide information on what constitutes good nutrition. Among the problems treated in these lessons are heart disease, peptic ulcer, hepatitis, vitamin deficiency…