Explains how to prepare a permanent, portable, and easy to use device for flame-test demonstrations. (DKM)

Describes a demonstration in which a bloodred-colored solution of hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide, and phenolphthalein indicator is added to a mud-colored solution of potassium permanganate, hydrated manganous chloride, and sulfuric acid. The mixture turns clear when added together. Draws parallels between the demonstration and the Old…

Thermochromism is the reversible change of color of a solid when heated or cooled. Describes the preparation of thermochromic compounds that exhibit sharp thermochromic transitions. (DKM)

Details a simple quantitative experiment to measure the percent of oxygen in air. (DKM)

Describes a novel demonstration of the acid-base chemistry of the aluminum ion. (DKM)

Explains the myth and the reality surrounding the source of the cloud produced from the reaction of dry ice with water. (DKM)

A paramagnetic substance is attracted by a magnetic field with a force proportional to its magnetic susceptibility which is related to the number of unpaired electrons in the atoms. Data are used to establish oxidation states and bonding properties. Describes a simple setup to demonstrate the paramagnetism of common inorganic compounds. (DKM)

Presents specific examples of performance evaluation in a high school chemistry class. Offers suggestions for doing performance evaluations. (DKM)

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Committee on Professional Training presented results from an industrial roundtable which showed that one of the key experiences industry seeks in new hires is team problem solving. Undergraduate chemistry education, however, historically stresses individual work. Offers suggestions for improving student learning…

Describes chemistry laboratory experiments that can be done with student-designed investigations. Suggests approaches for restructuring traditional chemistry laboratories. (DKM)

Gives a step-by-step description of a problem-solving microscale chemistry laboratory to show how this implementation of problem-solving teaching can be put into practice. Pedagogical and practical issues are discussed. (DKM)

Reports on a series of studies related to seeking a more effective role for laboratory experiences in science instruction. The study addressed the status of laboratory-based instruction in chemistry at the beginning college level. This study should be of value in the continual search to seek effective means of reforming beginning college-level…

Access to professional development opportunities for in-service high school chemistry teachers remains a problem. In an effort to increase teacher access, a new cross-listed course called Chemistry 869/Curriculum and Instruction 869 was created at the University of Nebraska and offered via the Internet. Describes this course in microscale…

Describes the integration of topics dealing with "bad science"--pseudo, pathological, or deviant science--into introductory undergraduate courses in general and analytical chemistry, and provides extensive references for the chemistry instructor interested in these topics. The approach is to incorporate specific cases that address scientific…

Describes the use of an inexpensive device consisting of a plastic soda bottle and a modified plastic cap in a range of demonstrations and experimental activities having to do with the behavior of gases. (Author/WRM)