Describes an experiment which illustrates simple synthetic techniques, redox principles in synthesis reactions, interpretation of visible spectra using Orgel diagrams, and the spectrochemical series. The experiment is suitable for the advanced undergraduate inorganic chemistry laboratory. (JN)

Describes test-tube organic chemistry procedures (using comparatively safe reagents) for the beginning student. These procedures are used to: examine differences between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons; compare structural isomers; and compare organic and inorganic acids and bases. (DH)

Background information and procedures are provided for a second part to the dichromate volcano demonstration. The green ash produced during the demonstration is reduced to metal using aluminothermy (Goldschmide process). Also describes suitable light sources and spectroscopes for student observation of emission spectra in lecture halls. (JN)

Examines heterologous expression in Escherichia coli and the role of regulatory sequences which control gene expression at transcription resulting in abundant production of messenger RNA and regulatory sequences in mRNA which promote efficient translation. Also examines the role of E. coli cells in stabilizing mRNA and protein that is…

Evaluates the accuracy and usefulness of a simpler rationale for teaching acid-base physiology as compared to more complex approaches frequently taught in physiology courses. Also reviews problems of terminology, giving emphasis to the significant effects that the choice of words can have on students' concepts. (JN)

Presents a nonmathematical approach to help students understand that there are two types of coherence and to associate coherence as a property of the illumination at an object itself. The approach also lends itself to an introduction to the Fourier approach for analyzing imaging systems. (JN)

Discusses evidence suggesting that the earliest land plants (small simple forms in damp areas during the Silurian period) preceeded the earliest land animals (including such small arthropods as millipedes and mites). Close animal-plant interactions occurred at the onset with more complex terrestrial ecosystems developing by the Devonian. (DH)

Discusses changes in the crystal structure of iron and steel when these materials are heated. Focuses on observations related to an experiment in which a 60-inch length of piano wire (No. 29 steel wire) is heated and then cooled. (JN)

Provides an overview of enzyme reactions which contribute to the character and acceptability of plant foods. A detailed discussion of polyphenoloxidase is also provided as an example of an enzyme which can markedly affect the character and acceptability of such foods. (JN)

Describes two experiments that illustrate basic ideas but would be difficult to carry out. Also presents activities and experiments on rainbow cups, electrical charges, electrophorus calculation, pulse electrometer, a skidding car, and on the Oersted effect. (JN)

Discusses several aspects of software evaluation, suggesting that software should fit into an existing course and that students and faculty colleagues should be involved in the evaluation process. Also provides sources of evaluation guides, actual educational software evaluations, and software awareness materials. (JN)

Analytical chemistry deals with the qualitative and quantitative identification, characterization, and measurement of the chemical species present in a sample. A description of and comments on preparing for a career in this branch of chemistry are provided. (JN)

Describes a computer program (for Apple II microcomputers) which simulates motion in a quadratic resisting medium. Descriptive equations, program inputs and outputs, and program evaluation are considered. Program listing and/or program on initialized disk may be obtained by contacting the author. (JN)

Discusses conflicting theories that explain how and why bombardment by comets spells periodic disaster for life on earth. Dislodgment of comets occurs from a vast cloud that envelops the solar system by gravitational forces of either a companion star of the sun or a dust cloud. (BC)

Discusses a computer simulation which: (1) describes an experiment investigating F=m/a; (2) generates data; (3) allows students to see the data; and (4) generates the equation with a least-squares fit. (JN)