Presents a laboratory experiment which determines critical temperature and density of carbon dioxide. Discusses critical point and provides equations to estimate liquid volume fraction. Analyzes experimental results in terms of variables. (JM)

Presents the exploded structure method for determination of oxidation states in covalently bound atoms. The three step method is illustrated with four examples and compared to popular textbook presentations. (JM)

Presents a case study analysis which attempts to illuminate the difference between knowledge accumulation and ability to deal with problem solving in stoichiometry. Competence is presented as ability to properly represent, solve, and verify solutions. Discusses rule or algorithm based vs. heuristic based problem solving. (JM)

Cites advances in x-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, computer modeling, and display to guide the design and analysis of protein structures. Reviews recent advances in knowledge, synthesis techniques, and theory of proteins. (JM)

Describes the Dominican Study of Environmental Adaptation of Marine Organisms ("D.SEA"). Includes information organization and funding, purpose and goals, preliminary experiences with the program, and comments by the 14 students who have been working in the program. (JN)

Discusses three trends in computer-oriented chemistry instruction: (1) availability of interfaces to integrate computers with experiments; (2) impact of the development of higher resolution graphics and greater memory capacity; and (3) role of videodisc technology on computer assisted instruction. Includes program listings for auto-titration and…

A gas chromatography (GC) mass spectroscopy (MS) system recently developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP-5987 GC/MS/Data System) is described, illustrating the technological advances that have been achieved with the system. Examples of the data processing and output process are provided to demonstrate the capabilities and application of the system to…

Outlines a cooperative effort in Iowa to eliminate dangerous or unwanted chemicals from school science storerooms. Also reviews the Council of State Science Supervisor's safety program and discusses how to prevent cuts and punctures from jagged glass tubing. (JN)

Reviews historical and current patterns in chemistry instruction, listing influences on chemistry curriculum development and identifying change elements in science education. Enumerates major advances in the nature of chemistry and the subsequent impact on school chemistry. (ML)

Invites colleagues in the "hard" sciences to embrace writing, reading, and thinking across the curriculum, and describes the use of "project" and "concept" composition assignments to that end in an organic chemistry course. (HTH)

Discusses how "live" experiments were combined with media packages and recorded lectures to allow coverage of more material and foster greater student/teacher interactions. Notes were distributed at the beginning of the semester which allow students to record experimental data from class demonstrations. Problems and suggestions for course…

CHEMPAC, a computer-based chemistry course developed for high school students, bridges the gap between textbook and laboratory to provide greater quantitative accuracy to laboratory experiments. This course and experiments (involving pH) illustrating the CHEMPAC approach are provided. (JN)

Discusses problems and pitfalls of working with single-pan balances and methods used to advertise their accuracy. Investigated manufacturers knowledge of buoyancy effects, relating provisions and recommendations made by various companies. Provides a routine for intercalibration of weight using dummy weights of approximately known mass. (JM)

Describes an experiment designed to teach students to apply the same statistical awareness to instrumentation they commonly apply to classical techniques. Uses propagation of error techniques to pinpoint instrumental limitations and breakdowns and to demonstrate capabilities and limitations of volumetric and gravimetric methods. Provides lists of…

Describes a pilot program that tested the feasibility of using a computer-based communication system for offering an interdisciplinary, inservice biology and chemistry course to regional high school teachers. Course structure (including computer management and electronic mail system), on-line examinations, and unanticipated problems are among the…