Describes 10 computer programs used to draw diagrams usually drawn on chalkboards, such as addition of three vectors, vector components, range of a projectile, lissajous figures, beats, isotherms, Snell's law, waves passing through a lens, magnetic field due to Helmholtz coils, and three curves. Several programming tips are included. (JN)

A cost-analysis competition was introduced into the experimental synthesis sequence of an organic chemistry course. Rationale for the approach as well as experiments involved are discussed. (JN)

A Macintosh microcomputer and MacPaint program can be used to quickly make charts of structural formulas that fill standard-sized paper with a minimum of instruction, and smaller drawings or structures or fragments may be inserted into text composed with a word processing program. Shows how this is done. (JN)

Cautions chemists to be wary of ferromagnetic samples (especially magnetized samples), stray electromagnetic radiation, dusty environments, and changing weather conditions. These and other conditions may alter readings obtained from electronic analytical balances. (JN)

Discusses how physics is used to improve the efficiency of combustion, pointing out that the interdisciplinary topic has applications to problems of real industrial relevance and practical value. (JN)

Discusses the values presented in various handbooks for the boiling point and heat of vaporization of sulfuric acid, noting discrepencies. Analyzes various approaches to data presentation, discussing the data on sulfuric acid in light of the Trouton constant. Points out the need for a more critical use of tables. (JM)

Describes a procedure for the qualitative analysis of aluminum subgroup cations designed to avoid failure to obtain lead or barium chromate precipitates or failure to report aluminum hydroxide when present (due to staining). Provides a flow chart and step-by-step explanation for the new procedure, indicating significantly improved student results.…

Describes an experiment on the simultaneous determination of chromium and magnesium by spectophotometry modified to include the Generalized Standard Addition Method computer program, a multivariate calibration method that provides optimal multicomponent analysis in the presence of interference and matrix effects. Provides instructions for…

Proposes novel methods of solving mechanics and dynamics problems by changing frames of reference. Uses these ideas to pursue Einstein's notions of inertial and uniformly rotating reference frames, gravitational and inertial mass, and the gravitational bending of light in relation to the simple original problem. (JM)

Thermal imagers are able to form images of scenes because the thermal emissions from different elements of the scene as viewed by the imager differ from each other. Several demonstrations with a thermal imager and a discussion of Count Rumford's 1807 experiment are presented. (JM)

Describes a computer program which simulates the processes that determine the steady-state distribution of water and electrolytes between the cytoplasmic fluid in a typical cell and its extracellular environment. Program listing (in BASIC) or program on your own diskette can be obtained by contacting author. (JN)

Describes the measurement of refractive index of laser light using a glass plate, prism, and a ruler. Discusses the application of Snell's law to the activity. (JM)

Defines frame of reference for the analysis of motion in a moving car, discussing the interaction of the car body, the seat springs, and the passenger when the car goes over a bump. Provides a related, but more advanced, problem with the motion of cars involving angular acceleration. (JM)

Discusses the historical development of the concept of geologic time. Develops the topic by using the major discoveries of geologists, beginning with Steno and following through to the discovery and use of radiometric dating. An extensive reference list is provided. (JM)

Describes a microscale laboratory course in which students perform many classic organic reactions using only one-hundredth to one-thousandth the amount of starting material usual in student experiments. Reduction of toxic chemicals concentration in laboratory air and savings in chemical costs and experimental time are benefits of the novel course.…