Chemical reaction rates can be controlled by varying composition of miniscule clusters of metal atoms. These bimetallic catalysts have had major impact on petroleum refining, where work has involved heterogeneous catalysis (reacting molecules in a phase separate from catalyst.) Experimentation involving hydrocarbon reactions, catalytic…

Encouraging a science park at Cambridge University has resulted in a geographically compact community with a broad range of high-technology industries. Factors leading to this university/business success (also called "The Cambridge Phenomenon") include: more relaxed attitudes about faculty's outside activities; positive attitudes toward…

Developmental stages of the beech weevil ("Rhynchaenus fagi") are suggested for experiments on population dynamics. Explains the weevil's life history, illustrating convenience of immature stages for study of development and mortality. Limitations of the study as well as possibilities for changing its emphasis are also discussed. (Author/DH)

Describes and lists a program for Apple Pascal Version 1.1 which investigates the behavior of the bicarbonate-carbon dioxide buffer system in acid-base disorders. Designed specifically for the preclinical medical student, the program has proven easy to use and enables students to use blood gas parameters to arrive at diagnoses. (DH)

Characteristics of science are explained through a historical and a functional approach. Indicates that science works successfully toward traditional goals because individual and group goals tend to coincide, and that competition between individual scientists contributes to the functional organization of science. (DH)

The belief that "knowledge is most effectively pursued when disseminated without hindrance" began when science first took shape in early Greece. Its development during the Middle Ages and Renaissance is discussed (examining patenting innovation), ownership rights became more important as science became a means to power. (DH)

Describes the use of an inexpensive apparatus (based on a butane lighter fluid can and a standard tire pressure gauge) in measuring the atomic/molecular mass of an unknown gas and in demonstrating the mass of air or the dependence of pressure on the mass of a gas. (JN)

Determined which form of kinetic structure (high or low) and/or micrograph content (unified or varied) was most effective on introductory college biology students' (N=100) achievement of reading micrograph skills. Findings, among others, suggest that high kinetic structure instruction does not affect actual reading micrograph skills, but…

Suggesting that descriptive chemistry is basic to basic chemical literacy, offers examples of descriptive chemistry problems (with answers) based on inexpensive, short, safe, striking, and simple lecture experiments. Issues related to the teaching of descriptive chemistry are also addressed. (JN)

Several interesting and important examples of kinetic stability and kinetic control in organic systems are discussed. Audiovisual aids, lecture demonstrations, and laboratory activities that can be used to convey the material in a clear and stimulating fashion are also described. (JN)

Clarifies two concepts of gravity--those of a fictitious force and those of how space and time may have geometry. Reviews the position of Newton's theory of gravity in the context of special relativity and considers why gravity (as distinct from electromagnetics) lends itself to Einstein's revolutionary interpretation. (JN)

Presents several optical illusions which can be used to demonstrate the principles of geometrical optics. Procedures needed to accomplish the demonstrations are included. (JN)

Describes procedures for disposing of dichromate cleaning solution, picric acid, organic azides, oxalic acid, chemical spills, and hydroperoxides in ethers and alkenes. These methods have been tested under laboratory conditions and are specific for individual chemicals rather than for groups of chemicals. (JN)

Discusses the use of orbital shapes for instructional purposes, emphasizing that differences between polar, contour, and three-dimensional plots must be made clear to students or misconceptions will occur. Also presents three-dimensional contour surfaces for the seven 4f atomic orbitals of hydrogen and discusses their computer generation. (JN)

Describes an undergraduate organic chemistry experiment (requiring three/four 3-hour laboratory sessions) involving a four-stage synthesis of 1-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines via the Pictet-Spengler route. In addition, the experiment allows students to study the spectra and properties of aklaloid-like materials while completing several…