Discusses ambiguities of the accepted definition of the chelate effect, suggesting that it be defined in terms of experimental observation rather than mathematical abstraction. Indicates that the effect depends on free energy change in reaction, ligand basicity, pH of medium, type of chelates formed, and concentration of ligands in solution. (JN)

Discusses reasons why the original van Deemter equation should no longer be taught and why three other equations, better representing chromatographic dispersion, are preferred. Also discusses underlying phenomena in terms that can be transmitted to sophomores. (JN)

The statement is sometimes made in textbooks that liquid hydrogen peroxide is more strongly associated than water, evidenced by its higher boiling point and greater heat of vaporization. Discusses these and an additional factor (the nearly double molecular mass of the peroxide), focusing on hydrogen bonds and structure of the molecule. (JN)

Discusses evidence for the tetrahedral configuration of the carbon atom, indicating that three symmetrical configurations are theoretically possible for coordination number four. Includes table indicating that resolvability of compounds of type CR'R"R"'R"" is a necessary but not sufficient condition for proving tetrahedral configuration. (JN)

Discusses a simple, effective way of teaching S and R configurations for chiral molecules containing asymmetric centers. The method involves converting wedge/spatial representations to Fischer projections and prioritizing groups according to the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog sequence rules. Two examples illustrating the method are included. (JN)

Discusses challenges that should be implemented in chemistry teaching during the 1980s/1990s. These include a focus on social relevance and orientation to student (considering developmental stages, way of thinking, and direct environment). These efforts may change the current negative public image of chemistry. (JN)

Describes rationale for and advantages of using programed study aids in solving organic chemistry problems. Includes examples of these programed, multi-step aids which provide leading questions, factual information, and in some cases, the logical thinking required to arrive at correct (although short) answer. (JN)

Manufacture, properties, uses, and economic aspects of inorganic chemicals are discussed in an industrial chemistry course. Provided and discussed is a flowchart used in the course. The flowchart is a logical method of presenting the important features of inorganic chemicals and a summarizing their method of manufacture. (JN)

Background information and procedures are provided for an experiment to prepare three metal derivatives of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and to determine some structural features of these derivatives based on their infrared spectra. Results and discussion of reactions involved are also provided. (JN)

Discusses development and presentation of a chemical demonstration show for grades 1-6 students. Includes major concepts presented and experiments used in the hour-long show. Concepts/experiments focus on the show's theme: the nature of chemical change. Safety factors involved when conducting demonstrations with children are addressed. (JN)

Presents an experiment in which color is used as an additional characteristic when purifying and identifying crystals of two soluble salts obtained from a metathesis reaction. Indicates that the experiment has been used with both nonmajors and inorganic chemistry students in at least their third term. (JN)

Background information, procedures, and results are provided for a series of graduate/undergraduate polymer experiments. These include synthesis of poly(methylmethacrylate), viscosity experiment (indicating large effect even small amounts of a polymer may have on solution properties), and measurement of weight-average molecular weight by light…

Describes a PASCAL computer program which provides interactive analysis and display of high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra from spin one-half nuclei using a hard-copy or monitor. Includes general and theoretical program descriptions, program capability, and examples of its use. (Source for program/documentation is included.)…

DTA is a technique in which the temperature difference between sample/reference is measured as a function of temperature, while both are subject to a controlled temperature program. Use of a simple DTA-apparatus in demonstrating catalytic effects of manganese dioxide and aluminum oxide on decomposition temperature of potassium chlorate is…

Provides background information, procedures, and results of an experiments designed to introduce undergraduates to the technique of steam distillation as a means of isolating thermally sensitive compounds. Chromatographic techniques (HPLC) and mass spectrometric analysis are used in the experiment which requires three laboratory periods. (JN)