Describes a scheme in which students are arbitrarily paired and presented with a menu of 11 experiments (as well as a figure illustrating their relationships). Each student performs seven experiments in triplicate during the 11 3-hour laboratory periods. Goals of this course are included. (JN)

Reviews software on: gas laws for IBM (disk available-SERAPHIM); gas chromatographic separation simulation for TRS-80 (listing available from author); vapor pressure data display with theoretical fit for Apple (author will copy on your disk); and second virial coefficients of nonpolar gases using the Kihara potential for TI-59 calculators. (JM)

Presents three ideas to help hold costs down in purchasing and using science equipment. These include (1) use of pencils and other graphite rods as sensors in potentiometric titrations, (2) rubber bulb modification for pipetting, and (3) a heater for a glassware bath. (JM)

Provides background material and laboratory procedures for an activity which requires students to compare (in quantitative terms) fossils from 10 localities and to objectively define provinces, regions, and realms. These paleobiogeographic relationships are then used to reconstruct the drift histories of the three continents on which the 10…

Highlights survey results on the status of females in full-time, tenured or tenure track faculty positions in chemistry. Indicates that males still dominate PhD-granting chemistry faculties and that, although the number of women is increasing, the increase is not proportionate to the rate at which they are earning chemistry PhDs. (JM)

Describes a modular approach to help select the most effective instruments for particular applications. In the approach, an instrument is considered to be a system composed of modules, each module performing a particular function. General input/output functions of various modules, how they modify signals, and module sensitivity are discussed. (JM)

Describes a National Science Foundation (NSF) initiative designed to broaden access to advanced computing facilities for university researchers not eligible to tap into federally subsidized networks. Rationale for and issues related to the initiative are also considered. (JN)

Describes a simplified method of calculating the speeds necessary to cause large relativistic changes and to determine the magnitudes of physical quantities as an object approaches the speed of light. Provides equations and two completed example problems. (JM)

Suggests that exposure to science should not be confused with understanding science or with scientific literacy. Indicates that in spite of taking science classes, few students come through this experience with more than a fleeting glimpse of science, and fewer still retain any lasting impression of the scientific world. (JN)

Describes a computer program which allows the user to establish and maintain a file of up to 1,000 items. Items are stored alphabetically and may be searched. Copy of the program for Apple II Plus (DOS 3.3) may be obtained by contacting the author. (JN)

Discusses how the caustic by reflection is formed. Indicates that the phenomenon can be demonstrated by showing the reflection of the light from a distant point source from the inner curve of a polished hoop of metal (such as a wedding ring). (JN)

Describes three demonstrations used in the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry polarized light show. The procedures employed are suitable for the classroom by using smaller polarizers and an overhead projector. Topic areas include properties of cellophane tape, nondisappearing arrows, and rope through a picket fence. (JN)

Discusses the operation of two automatic toasters, comparing and contrasting an old Sunbeam model (approximately 20 years old) with a Proctor-Silex, a model currently being sold. Includes schematic representation of parts of the Sunbeam and schematic of essential parts and circuit diagram of the Proctor-Silex. (JN)

Provided are activities focusing on phenomena associated with rotation of a double wheel (two bicycle wheels mounted on a common axis and free to rotate independently of each other) and on the operation of an electromagnetic toy car. (JN)

Describes the rationale for and objectives of a strategy in which students display projects in lieu of a final examination. Although no grading is attached to the "walk-through," participation is required for the course grade. Sample student projects reflecting the variety of display formats are also described. (JN)