Describes how Gibbs valley graphs can clarify the relation between the Gibbs function and chemical equilibrium. Gives examples from gas phase equilibria. (CS)

Presents information concerning a fundamental concept for understanding reaction rate, the idea of a rate-limiting step for a chemical reaction. Discusses problems in using flow analogies and introduces an alternative approach to finding the rate-limiting step based on locating the transition state of highest energy. (CS)

Discussed is an extension of the conventional method for studying the organometallic chemistry of transition metals that may be useful to show how the various existing types of low-valence complexes can be constructed. This method allows students to design new types of complexes that may still be nonexistent. (CW)

Described are some of the difficulties presented in these reactions by competing equilibria that are usually ignored. Situations involving acid-base equilibria, solubility product calculations, the use of ammonia as a complexing agent, and semiquantitative comparisons of solubility product values are discussed. (CW)