Lists seven new and 19 other tests currently available from the American Chemical Society and presents in table form norms of recent tests condensed from larger data aggregates. (SK)

A survey of freshman chemistry laboratory manuals identified 15 questionable laboratory procedures, including the use of potentially hazardous chemicals. Alternatives are suggested for each hazard discussed (such as using a substitute solvent for benzene). (SK)

Molecular mechanics is a nonquantum mechanical method for solving problems concerning molecular geometries and energy. Methodology based on: the principle of combining potential energy functions of all structural features of a particular molecule into a total force field; derivation of basic equations; and use of available computer programs is…

The application of molecular mechanics (a nonquantum mechanical method for solving problems concerning molecular geometries) to calculate force fields for n-butane and cyclohexane is discussed. Implications regarding the stable conformations of the example molecules are also discussed. (Author/SK)

Since the usefulness of cyclic point groups is oftentimes neglected in textbooks, suggestions are given for writing down tables of characteristics for these groups. (SK)

Describes experiment expanding on principles behind measuring efficiency of chromatographic columns and allowing calculation of parameters in the van Deemter equation. Easily accomplished in a three-hour period using a gas chromatograph in which gas flow can be changed and measured. Mathematical solutions can be attained with programmable…

Discusses rationale behind and content of a course (Industrial Pollution Control Techniques) combining knowledge from fields of industrial chemistry and chemical engineering and utilizing this knowledge in the context of understanding pollution problems and potential methods of pollution control. (Author/SK)

The increased emphasis on theory in undergraduate/introductory chemistry courses suggests a need for beginning students to understand philosophic aspects of scientific theory. Discusses alternative viewpoints on theory development and how misapprehensions about this can influence student creativity; argues for formal introduction to theory…

Current ideas of philosophy of science are applied to issue of descriptive versus theoretical material in introductory chemistry courses, introducing Kuhn's definitions of "exemplars," connecting these to problems with teaching students theories at the abstract level, and arguing that the theoretical/descriptive controversy is about…

Describes a four-week program to prepare Pennsylvania high school science teachers to teach a course in nuclear science. Includes program content and organization and the name/address of contact person for teachers interested in participating in the 1982 session. (SK)

Five atomic theory activities feasible for high school students to perform are described based on the following models: (1) Dalton's Uniform Sphere Model; (2) Thomson's Raisin Pudding Model; (3) Rutherford's Nuclear Model; (4) Bohr's Energy Level Model, and (5) Orbital Model from quantum mechanics. (SK)

Suggests a testing format suitable for thermodynamics, including questions and correct answers. Also offers a test question and an acceptable solution focusing on the elimination of certain steps in the glycolytic pathway. (SK)

Following a discussion of how computers are used to solve chemical problems, offers suggestions for avoiding common problems, reviews successful applications and languages (BASIC and FORTRAN), speculates on future trends, and discusses why chemists need to know about computers. (SK)

A set of ions is selected (by computer program available from author) for each student in this qualitative analysis course. Students work out a separation scheme based on results of their experimentation and using selected references. Course methodology, preparation of solutions/unknowns, grading, and student responses are discussed. (Author/SK)

Student activities and experimental procedures are described for an experiment using black and white photographic development to illustrate the determination of reaction rate, kinetic order of a reactant, and activation energy. (Author/SK)