Presents a new view of the electronic structure of pi systems that unifies molecular orbital and valence bond theories. Describes construction of electronic structure diagrams (central to this new view) which demonstrate how configuration interaction can improve qualitative predictions made from simple Huckel theory. (JN)

Describes: (1) laboratory information science in the clinical chemistry curriculum; (2) testing Boyle's Law, a context for statistical methods in undergraduate laboratories; (3) acquiring chemical concepts using microcomputers as tutees; and (4) using Data Interchange Format files for Apple microcomputers. Includes feedback from a previous article…

Presents and discusses results obtained from a 10-item questionnaire (administered to 554 students) which sought to determine why students selected chemistry as a major. Findings, among others, show that the secondary school period is the most important (possibly critical) for spawning a commitment to a chemistry career. (JN)

Matrix methods and oxidation-number methods are currently advocated and used for balancing equations. This article shows how balancing equations can be introduced by a third method which is related to a fundamental principle, is easy to learn, and is powerful in its application. (JN)

Recognizing that success in general chemistry is dependent on the development of disciplined study habits, the author motivates his students to develop these skills through prelecture assignments that introduce them to various studying strategies. The format and use of the prelecture assignments are described. (JN)

"Dimensional analysis" (or "factor-label") is the method most frequently used to teach reaction stoichiometry. However, because it is a strictly arithmetical approach, a pictorial framework that facilitates conceptualization of a reaction as a coherent process is advocated and described. (JN)

Describes the science program at Incarnate Word, a private Catholic girls' college preparatory school in San Antonio (Texas). Focuses on the chemistry curriculum and the instructional strategies/materials (such as learning activity packets) used in the curriculum. (JN)

The simulation of titration and qualitative analysis experiments by means of computer-driven laser videodisc recordings is described. (JN)

Background information and procedures used are provided for the synthesis of 4,5-diphenyl-methylimidazole. This experiment on the chemistry of heterocycles is ideally suited for beginning undergraduate organic chemistry students. (JN)

An organic chemistry laboratory has been designed around independent laboratory projects that are done by groups, thus exposing students not only to a research experience but also to one that is more realistic and like the one they will be in as professional chemistry chemists. Instructional strategies used are described. (JN)

Discusses the rationale for and development of an experiment on the oxidation of secondary alcohols with common hypochlorite bleach. The experiment provides a safe, environmentally sound, and inexpensive modern synthetic method. In addition, it utilizes a variety of laboratory techniques and some fundamental oxidation-reduction chemistry. (JN)

Describes a project-type experiment in which students each try to find the color indicator present in a particular flower. The philosophy of conducting such an experiment and procedures used are included. (JN)

Describes an extremely simple technique (using only Dreiding or Framework molecular models, a flashlight, small sheets of glass, and a piece of cardboard) which produces extremely accurate line drawings of stereoscopic images. Advantages of using the system are noted. (JN)

Desribes a chemistry course (taught in summer for graduate credit) for K-6 teachers to help promote teaching of chemistry as an experimental science at the elementary school level. Also describes another chemistry course for elementary school teachers, focusing on the laboratory component and experiments. (JN)

Determining the pounds of sodium chloride needed for a water softener to replace all the calcium/magnesium ions in a month's water supply for a typical local household is used as an exercise to integrate several chemistry concepts. The solution to this problem and suggestions for related laboratory experiments are offered. (JN)