Proposes a simple solution to the problem of expressing graphically absolute configuration, racemic character, and relative configuration in molecules. As demonstrated by several examples, the proposed convention brings added clarity and simplicity to structural drawings and renders graphic displays of chiral molecules as explicit and information…

Shows how a standard slide projector can be adapted for use as an effective spectroscope. Also describes three experiments using the modified slide projector. (JN)

Discusses some of the drawbacks of using a demonstration of the electrolysis of water to illustrate the interconversion between electrical and chemical energy. Illustrates a simple apparatus allowing demonstration of this concept while overcoming these drawbacks. (CW)

Discusses: structure of the enzyme molecule; active site; reaction mechanism; transition state; factors affecting enzyme reaction rates, concentration of enzyme; concentration of substrate; product concentration; temperature effects and pH effects; factors causing a lowering of activation energy; proximity and orientation effects; substrate strain…

Presents two discussions which focus on the rationale for and goals of teaching electrochemistry at high school and college levels. The first is "Electrochemistry" by Ronald Perkins and the second is "Goals in Teaching Electrochemistry" by J. T. Maloy. (JN)

Using the mole to link the macroscopic and microscopic can be made better by talking about numbers (of entities) rather than amount of substance (that is, moles). Two examples are given to illustrate this argument. (JN)

Describes: (l) a microcomputer-based system for filing test questions and assembling examinations; (2) microcomputer use in practical and simulated experiments of gamma rays scattering by outer shell electrons; (3) an interactive, screen-oriented, general linear regression program; and (4) graphics drill and game programs for benzene synthesis.…

Describes a technique to improve the adaptation, development, and utilization of laboratory worksheets. Two sample worksheets (on decomposition of ethanol and on solubility of potassium chloride) are included. (JN)

Provides highlights of lectures, workshops, papers, and symposia presented at a conference which addressed such areas of chemical education as college/high school chemistry teaching; curriculum/curriculum development; safety; two-year programs; computers; toxicology and health hazards; problem-solving; writing skills development; textbooks;…

A previous article stated that only the matrix method was powerful enough to balance a particular chemical equation. Shows how this equation can be balanced without using the matrix method. The approach taken involves writing partial mathematical reactions and redox half-reactions, and combining them to yield the final balanced reaction. (JN)

Discusses the role of chelating agents in (1) mayonnaise and salad dressings; (2) canned legumes; (3) plant foods; (4) liquid dishwashing detergents; (5) toilet soaps; (6) floor wax removers; (7) hard surface cleaners; (8) carpet cleaning; (9) bathtub and tile cleaners; and (10) photography. (JN)

Six high school and college chemistry teachers describe what they do on the first day of class. These edited papers were presented in a symposium titled "My First Day of Class" at the Eighth (1984) Biennial Conference on Chemical Education. (JN)

Indicates that the true red color of calcium can be obtained (using the procedure described by Sorm and Logowski) if the calcium ion solution is mixed with an equal volume of saturated ammonium bromide solution. Suggestions for flame tests of other elements are also noted. (JN)

Suggests how postage stamps can be incorporated into chemistry teaching. Categories considered include emergence of chemistry as a science, metric system, atoms (and molecules and ions), stoichiometry, energy relationships in chemical systems, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, biochemistry, geochemistry, matter (gases, liquids, and solids),…

Since 1979, high school teachers from urban and rural areas of northeastern Ohio have brought their students to visit the College of Wooster Chemistry Department to learn about instruments. Rationale for the program and program activities are described. (JN)