The laboratory of an organic chemistry course for dietetics students is based on the learning cycle approach (exploration, invention-concept introduction, and concept application). The laboratory program is divided into four sections: lab techniques, compound types, reaction types, and reaction characteristics. (SK)

Describes a two-quarter, freshman honors laboratory course at the Ohio State University, including selection of students, nature of experiments, and safety precautions. Specific instructions are not given to students, who then run reactions under conditions they devise. (SK)

Describes the scanning electron microscope, including detection signals (secondary, backscattered, and absorbed electrons and x-rays) sample handling, and applications in various science areas. (SK)

Safety procedures used by Department of Chemistry at the University of Akron are discussed. These include policy that no chemicals are stored in the teaching laboratories. Instead, dispensing stockrooms are used to service the laboratories. Other aspects discussed include ventilation procedures and development of microprocessor use in stockrooms.…

Describes a lecture demonstration of a solid state phase transition using a thermodynamic material which changes state at room temperature. Also describes a demonstration on kinetics using a "Big Bang" (trade mark) calcium carbide cannon. Indicates that the cannon is safe to use. (JN)

Describes an inexpensive, easily constructed, and safe vertical slab gel kit used routinely for sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis research and student experiments. Five kits are run from a single transformer. Because toxic solutions are used, students are given plastic gloves and closely supervised during laboratory…

Describes fluorescence demonstrations related to several aspects of molecular theory and quantitized energy levels. Demonstrations use fluorescent chemical solutions having luminescence properties spanning the visible spectrum. Also describes a demonstration of spontaneous combustion of familiar substances in chlorine. (JN)

Undergraduate-level student research benefits both faculty and students, but the scarcity of public/private funding and loss of National Science Foundation (NSF) support are clouding the outlook. (Author/JN)

Psychological equilibration (internal mental process by which individuals develop intellectually) is discussed in terms of its origin in the biological theory of evolution and in the thinking of Jean Piaget. The importance of equilibration theory for biology instruction is then considered. (Author/JN)

Summarizes papers and minipapers on honors and advanced placement (AP) chemistry courses presented at the Seventh Biennial Conference on Chemical Education (Stillwater, Oklahoma 1982). Advantages/disadvantages of AP chemistry, high school/college courses, and grouping all chemistry students in one class were among the topics discussed. (JN)

Highlights seminar which addressed education of the nonmajor. Following brief comments on plan/execution of the seminar program and Japanese system of education, 19 recommendations are outlined and summarized. Recommendations focus on various aspects of courses, curricula, instructional strategies, and other factors related to nonmajors in the…

Selected aspects of a self-paced chemistry program are described. These include student selection, supervision requirements, and grading indicating that student selection is the key to a successful program. Also points out that quality/quantity of learning (determined by testing) is comparable to traditional lecture courses. (Author/JN)

Describes an inexpensive tensiometer, a balance consisting of a plastic drinking straw as the crossarm, a needle as a pivot, and wire loop counter balance to assure proper balance. The instrument permits the quantitative demonstration of interfacial tension and effects of various agents that modify it. (Author/JN)

A thermal oscillator is a self-sustained, nonlinear oscillating system. One part of the system vibrates continuously because of the transfer of heat. Four such devices, two new and two demonstrated in the 19th century are described. Although each depends on the periodic redistribution of heat, they are all quite different. (Author/JN)

A 1981 survey of United States and Canadian American Institute of Physics members shows salaries keeping up with inflation, shifts toward interdisciplinary work, but underrepresentation of women in higher paying positions. Although focusing on the 1981 employment situation, some speculation as to future changes are included. (Author/JN)