Stresses the importance of investigating bacterial mechanisms to discover clues for a greater understanding of cells. Cites examples of study areas of biological significance which may reveal information about the evolution of prokaryotes and eukaryotes and lead to a comprehensive theory of cell biology. (RT)

Discusses insights discovered from research into human biology that are raising possibilities for therapy, prevention of disease, and challenges to society in the form of ethical decisions about the appropriate application of genetic information. (Author/RT)

Described is a teaching method for connecting relative acidity among various species by the use of familiar references. Considered are teaching the acidity of alpha-hydrogens of ketones, alkylation of amides and imides, and others. (CW)

Describes two demonstrations for college level chemistry courses including: "Electrochemical Cells Using Sodium Silicate" and "A Simple, Vivid Demonstration of Selective Precipitation." Lists materials, preparation, procedures, and precautions. (CW)

Described is an undergraduate coordination chemistry experiment that enables students to relate concepts developed in class about the stereochemistry and coordination numbers to the interpretation of the electronic and infrared spectra and their magnetic behavior. Indicates that thermal decomposition and x-ray diffraction studies can also be…

Describes an experiment which illustrates the kinetic versus thermodynamic control of chemical reactions for organic chemistry students. Considers the laboratory procedures including the isolation of both the kinetic and thermodynamic products. (CW)

Describes an analytical technique termed the "thermostatic method" that is both conceptually and operationally simple and does not require the removal of liquid samples for analysis. Presents the theoretical background, experimental procedures, and analysis of results. (CW)

Explains the use of the 3-dimensional analytic geometry method to find values for a field geology problem. Gives a description of the mathematical theory for this method which can be applied to data obtained by drilling as well as open surfaces, and a computer program. (RT)

This article reviews the treatment of lichens in 93 different introductory North American botany textbooks. Topics considered are questions of relationship, independent survival, reproduction, definition, and scientific name. The author reports that treatment is uneven and often includes incomplete or erroneous information which may persist…

Discusses between-species variation in adaptation of the photosynthetic mechanism to cope with wide fluctuations of environmental water regime. Describes models for water conservation in plants and the role of photorespiration in the evolution of the different pathways. (CW)

Discusses the process-response model (PRM) in its theoretical and practical forms. Describes how geologists attempt to reconstruct the process from the response (the geologic phenomenon) being studied. (TW)

Discusses how rock-cycle diagrams can graphically illustrate the interrelationship between materials and processes in physical geology courses. Reviews nine contemporary physical geology textbooks with regard to their use of such diagrams. (TW)

Describes a video program that shows real-time formation of microscopic deformation features in rock analogues. Discusses the use of the video in combination with a lecture on deformation. (TW)

Discusses the need for a college chemistry course that is directly applicable to the real world. Describes some of the facets that such a course would contain and some of the possible benefits to students. (CW)

Compares processes used to investigate issues in consumer chemistry to the solving of a puzzle in a mystery story. Suggests using similar methods to teach problem solving in consumer chemistry classes. Describes how such a process might progress. (CW)