Discusses the unique contribution geology can make to general education as an interdisciplinary subject. Suggests making the geology curriculum broader in scope and deeper in meaning for the nongeologists. Geologic science is viewed as the most effective means by which the physical sciences may serve the social sciences, arts, and humanities. (RR)

A program called PROBLEM is detailed. It is a framework program built around a module structure that helps to make the development of computer-supervised drill much more manageable. It is viewed as an efficient approach in substantial areas of instruction in science and engineering. The material is entirely written in BASIC. (MP)

Describes sensitive and specific methods used to monitor tetrachlorodibenzodioxins and tetrachlorodibenzofurans. The procedures are suitable for detecting and quantifying these substances at the parts-per-trillion levels in complex environmental and biological samples. (Author/JN)

Discusses the nature and applications of mass-selective laser photoionization. The ionization can be done with a single intense laser pulse lasting a few billionths of a second with no molecular fragmentation. Applications focus on: (1) benzene clusters, excimers, and exciplexes; (2) metal clusters; and (3) triplet formation and decay. (Author/JN)

Taking a prototype chemical reaction (molecular hydrogen plus hydrogen atom), constructs an accurate semiempirical, generalized diatomics-in-molecules potential energy surface, calculates motions of these atoms on this surface using REACTS trajectory program, and presents results as moving picture on a microcomputer graphics system. Provides…

In support of its academic programs in the sciences, the University of Texas has recruited noted scientists to its campuses (with substantial salaries and benefits). This support for the sciences includes funds for new equipment and programs. (Author/JN)

Free radical chlorination of methane is used in organic chemistry to introduce free radical/chain reactions. In spite of its common occurrence, demonstrations of the reaction are uncommon. Therefore, such a demonstration is provided, including background information, preparation of reactants/reaction vessel, introduction of reactants, irradiation,…

Reported are designs for a colorimeter (absorptiometer) and polarimeter, both of which may be constructed readily with average workshop facilities and whose performance is superior to many commercial instruments commonly used in teaching laboratories. Includes pertinent diagrams, operating instructions, and sample output. (JN)

Provides a brief introduction to using the microcomputer as a piece of laboratory equipment. Focuses on the range of hardware currently available to assist microcomputer-based-instrumentation (MBI), specifically the analog-to-digital converters. In addition, discusses specification of system performance, selection and integration of components,…

Discusses chemometrics (analysis of data from chemical measurements), tracing developments in this area and summarizing reasons for teaching chemometrics. Includes highlights of presentations given at a symposium (Interpreting Complex Chemical Data: Teaching Chemometrics) and brief descriptions of chemometric methods. (JN)

Discusses various aspects of establishing a viable, undergraduate research program at a small, liberal arts college. Areas addressed include research topics, research supervisors, student research, and support for research activities. (JN)

The numbers of scientists/engineers employed at colleges and universities continue to grow, although not so rapidly as their numbers grow in the federal and industrial sectors. This is the conclusion of a survey from the National Science Foundation covering data collected in January 1982. Other survey highlights are reported. (JN)

Provides a detailed, non-mathematical analysis of total internal reflection based on the interaction of light and matter and the principle of superposition. Discusses factors affecting the critical angle and the percent of the incident beam that is refracted and reflected. (JM)