Describes a straightforward vertical fall experiment using a badminton shuttlecock, a tape measure, and a millisecond timer. The effects of air resistance are important and directly measurable. The experimental data best fit a predictive model which assumes a resistive force quadratic in the instantaneous speed of the falling object. (GS)

Describes the use of infrared and atomic absorption spectrometry in an introductory chemical oceanography course to introduce students to carbonate mineralogy by having them determine both the crystal structure and the magnesium content of seashells that they have collected. (Author/JN)

Lists the materials and describes two procedures, for demonstrating the solubility and complex ion equilibrium of silver(I) compounds. Indicates possible hazards and proper disposal. Suggests several homework problems. (JN)

Presents an experiment involving photochemical legand displacement on a metal carbonyl, separation of the product mixture by chromotography, and identification of the components by use of infrared spectroscopy and group theory. The chromatography and spectroscopy are combined as complementary tools in this experiment. (Author/JN)

Describes a method to detect the presence of microgram quantities of nearly any metal in samples of alloys, minerals, water, and air. This chemical-spot testing technique requires no elaborate equipment and can be done by an amateur. (SK)

A National Research Council report has recommended practices for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals in laboratories. They are a practical alternative to detailed regulations on individual chemicals. Topics discussed include physical hazards, chemical hazards, chronic hazards, laboratory ventalation, protective equipment,…

Describes different evaluation techniques of student performance in the science laboratory. Evaluation techniques discussed include written reports, test items, practical tests, and observational assessment to evaluate both student performance and to promote development of specific skills. (DS)

Presents activities for the fossilization process by using rust prints to simulate fossils. Photographs illustrate the procedures described. (HM)

Summarizes a theoretical approach using nonbonding MO's and perturbation theory to correlate properties of saturated hydrocarbons. Discussion is limited to correctly predicted using this method. Suggests calculations can be carried out quickly in organic chemistry. (Author/SA)

Describes a laboratory experiment which demonstrates manipulation of highly reactive chemicals, use of a gas trap, and simple and reduced pressure distillation. Student must characterize starting material and product with nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy. (Author/SA)

Presents information intended to encourage students to become thoughtful consumers. Discusses the role of pepsin in splitting off amino acids from stomach proteins and the nature of the protein substrate in determining the ph at which pepsin operates. Directions for an experiment are included. (Author/SA)

The study investigated specific student behavior in introductory and advanced college laboratories in botany, chemistry, geology, physics, and zoology. Behaviors were observed, described, and classified with no effort made to induce change, detail underlying conditions, or identify correlates. (Author/RE)

The use of pesticides in the schools is discussed. Some potential hazards include seeds dressed with fungicide/insecticide mixtures, fumigation of animal houses and greenhouses, and storage and disposal of pesticides. (SA)

Describes laboratory experiments of a chemistry course on advanced process control. The equipment for the process around which these experiments were developed by the University of Louisville was constructed from data provided by Exxon Oil Company. (HM)

A demonstration is described that encourages students to engage in inquiry in biology. Using chemicals and an overhead projector, the instructor can simulate a living organism projected onto a screen. The reaction can aid students in defining the characteristics of life. (SA)