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Journal Articles: 635 results
Molecular Models of Peroxides and Albendazoles  William F. Coleman
This month's Featured Molecules are albendazole and benzoyl peroxide.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1710.
Consumer Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Designing and Conducting a Purification Scheme as an Organic Chemistry Laboratory Practical  Kate J. Graham, Brian J. Johnson, T. Nicholas Jones, Edward J. McIntee, and Chris P. Schaller
Describes an open-ended laboratory practical that challenges students to evaluate when different purification techniques are appropriate.
Graham, Kate J.; Johnson, Brian J.; Jones, T. Nicholas; McIntee, Edward J.; Schaller, Chris P. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1644.
IR Spectroscopy |
Microscale Lab |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Physical Properties |
Separation Science
Molecular Models of Natural Products  William F. Coleman
This months Featured Molecules focus on natural products and include blattellquinone, a sex pheromone secreted by female German cockroaches to attract males, and (R)-limonene, a secondary metabolite found in citrus fruit peels.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1584.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Natural Products
Molecules and Medicine (E. J. Corey, Barbara Czakó, and László Kürti)  Robert E. Buntrock
Looking for a book on common drugs and pharmaceuticals? On diseases and medical conditions? On pharmacology? In addition, do you need some background in chemistry to handle all of this information? If you want all of this, and in addition want it under one cover, then this is the book for you.
Buntrock, Robert E. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1495.
Bioorganic Chemistry |
Drugs / Pharmaceuticals |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides |
Synthesis |
Toxicology
Molecular Models of Polymers Used in Sports Equipment  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month are a number of monomers and their associated polymers used in making equipment for a variety of high-impact sports. The molecules provide students with an introduction to an important area of applied chemistry and also enable them to examine complex structures using the models they have seen applied to small molecules.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1456.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Applications of Chemistry
Magnetized Water: Science or Fraud?  L. Lahuerta Zamora, G. M. Antón-Fos, P. A. Alemán López, and R. V. Martin Algarra
Commercial water magnetizers provide a unique opportunity to help university and secondary students develop appropriate skepticism against extraordinary claims and use testing as the basis for their scientific evaluation.
Lahuerta Zamora, L.; Antón-Fos, G. M.; Alemán López, P. A.; Martin Algarra, R. V. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1416.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Magnetic Properties |
pH |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry
Fog Machines, Vapors, and Phase Diagrams  Ed Vitz
This series of demonstrations elucidate the operation of commercial fog machines using common laboratory materials and can be adapted for elementary through tertiary levels. The formation of fogs is discussed in terms of the phase diagram for water and other chemical principles.
Vitz, Ed. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1385.
Liquids |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Physical Properties |
Water / Water Chemistry
Molecular Models of EDTA and Other Chelating Agents  William F. Coleman
EDTA and related chelating agents, including EGTA, DCTA, NTA, BAPTA, and DTPA, are this months Featured Molecules.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1296.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A Non-Mercury Thermometer Alternative for Use in Older Melting Point Apparatuses  Lois K. Ongley, Clayton S. Kern, and Barry W. Woods
This work demonstrates that lab-calibrated thermocouples are a statistically accurate and economically reasonable substitute for mercury thermometers to measure the melting point temperature for organic compounds in older Mel-Temp devices.
Ongley, Lois K.; Kern, Clayton S.; Woods, Barry W. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1263.
Calibration |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Laboratory Management
Helping Students Assess the Relative Importance of Different Intermolecular Interactions  Paul G. Jasien
A semi-quantitative model has been developed to estimate the relative effects of dispersion, dipoledipole interactions, and H-bonding on the normal boiling points for a series of simple, straight-chain organic compounds. Application of this model may be useful in addressing student misconceptions related to the additivity of intermolecular interactions.
Jasien, Paul G. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1222.
Chemometrics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Physical Properties
Stilling Waves with Ordered Molecular Monolayers  Ed Vitz
The amazing ability of a film of oil one molecule thick to dissipate the relatively large energy of water waves can be readily demonstrated, but an explanation of the effect has been elusive until recently.
Vitz, Ed. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1064.
Lipids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Surface Science |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Fatty Acids
Molecular Models of Real and Mock Illicit Drugs from a Forensic Chemistry Activity  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules for this month have been drawn from a forensic chemistry exercise in which model compounds are used to simulate the behavior of various drugs in a series of chemical tests. The compounds considered include chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and phenothiazine, both involved in the manufacture of antipsychotic drugs.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 880.
Drugs / Pharmaceuticals |
Forensic Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Identification of an Unknown Compound by Combined Use of IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and Mass Spectrometry: A Real-Life Experience in Structure Determination  Louis J. Liotta and Magdalena James-Pederson
In this introductory organic chemistry experiment, students are expected to operate NMR, IR, and GCMS instrumentation to obtain spectra which are interpreted to elucidate the chemical structure of the assigned compounds without the benefit of a list of possible unknowns.
Liotta, Louis J.; James-Pederson, Magdalena. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 832.
Gas Chromatography |
Instrumental Methods |
IR Spectroscopy |
Mass Spectrometry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Qualitative Analysis |
Spectroscopy
Exploring Solid-State Structure and Physical Properties: A Molecular and Crystal Model Exercise  Thomas H. Bindel
This laboratory allows students to examine relationships among the microscopicmacroscopicsymbolic levels using crystalline mineral samples and corresponding crystal models. The exercise also reinforces Lewis dot structures, VSEPR theory, and the identification of molecular and coordination geometries.
Bindel, Thomas H. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 822.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Solids |
VSEPR Theory |
Lewis Structures |
Physical Properties
Diamagnetic Corrections and Pascal's Constants  Gordon A. Bain and John F. Berry
This article presents an explanation for the origin of diamagnetic correction factors, comprehensive tables of diamagnetic constants and their application to calculate diamagnetic susceptibility, and a simple method for estimating the correct order of magnitude for the diamagnetic correction for any given compound.
Bain, Gordon A.; Berry, John F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 532.
Laboratory Computing / Interfacing |
Magnetic Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Transition Elements
Yet Another Variation on the Electrolysis of Water at Iron Nails  Mark T. Stauffer and Justin P. Fox
Describes a variation on the electrolysis of water with iron nails in which a sharp contrast in the colors produced effectively demonstrates electrolysis and the diffusion of oxidized and reduced species from the electrodes.
Stauffer, Mark T.; Fox, Justin P. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 523.
Acids / Bases |
Electrochemistry |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Stoichiometry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Electrolytic / Galvanic Cells / Potentials
Molecular Models of Antioxidants and Radicals  William F. Coleman
This months Featured Molecules include L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), trans-cinnamic acid, citric acid monohydrate, Fremy's salt (nitrosodisulfonate)dianion, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl), and (R,R,R)-a-tocopherol (vitamin E).
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 464.
Applications of Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A Simple Method for Drawing Chiral Mononuclear Octahedral Metal Complexes  Aminou Mohamadou and Arnaud Haudrechy
This article presents a simple and progressive method to draw all of the octahedral complexes of coordination units with at least two different monodentate ligands and show their chiral properties.
Mohamadou, Aminou; Haudrechy, Arnaud. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 436.
Asymmetric Synthesis |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Coordination Compounds |
Diastereomers |
Enantiomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Transition Elements
Molecular Models of Lycopene and Other Carotenoids  William F. Coleman
This month's Featured Molecules include the carotenoids lycopene and beta-carotene.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 320.
Food Science |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Understanding the Clausius–Clapeyron Equation by Employing an Easily Adaptable Pressure Cooker  Monica Galleano, Alberto Boveris, and Susana Puntarulo
Describes a laboratory exercise to understand the effect of pressure on phase equilibrium as described by the ClausiusClapeyron equation. The equipment required is a pressure cooker adapted with a pressure gauge and a thermometer in the lid, allowing the measurement of the pressure and the temperature of the chamber containing the water heated until vaporization.
Galleano, Monica; Boveris, Alberto; Puntarulo, Susana. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 276.
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry
The Role of Water Chemistry in Marine Aquarium Design: A Model System for a General Chemistry Class  Jeffrey J. Keaffaber, Ramiro Palma, and Kathryn R. Williams
Water chemistry is central to aquarium design, and it provides many potential applications for discussion in undergraduate chemistry and engineering courses. This article uses a hypothetical tank to house ocean sunfish as a model to show students the calculations and other considerations that are needed when designing a marine aquarium.
Keaffaber, Jeffrey J.; Palma, Ramiro; Williams, Kathryn R. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 225.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Stoichiometry |
Water / Water Chemistry
A Simplified Model To Predict the Effect of Increasing Atmospheric CO2 on Carbonate Chemistry in the Ocean  Brian J. Bozlee, Maria Janebo, and Ginger Jahn
The chemistry of dissolved inorganic carbon in seawater is reviewed and used to predict the potential effect of rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It is found that calcium carbonate may become unsaturated in cold surface seawater by the year 2100, resulting in the destruction of calcifying organisms such as coral.
Bozlee, Brian J.; Janebo, Maria; Jahn, Ginger. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 213.
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Green Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Reply to A. F.Photooxidation of Bilirubin to Biliverdin and Bilirubin Structure  William F. Coleman
The JCE Featured Molecules Editor replies to criticisms of a previous Featured Molecule.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 202.
Dyes / Pigments |
Photochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
JCE Resources for Chemistry and Water  Erica K. Jacobsen
This annotated bibliography collects the best that past issues of JCE have to offer for use with the 2008 Chemists Celebrate Earth Day theme, "Streaming Chemistry".
Jacobsen, Erica K. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 188.
Water / Water Chemistry
Streaming Chemistry  John W. Moore
The JCE editorial staff has collected a broad range of articles in support of the topic Water, this years theme for Chemists Celebrate Earth Day.
Moore, John W. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 171.
Water / Water Chemistry
Colorful Lather Printing  Susan A. S. Hershberger, Matt Nance, Arlyne M. Sarquis, and Lynn M. Hogue
Students explore the chemistry of polar and nonpolar substances and surfactants while marbling paper with shaving cream and food coloring.
Hershberger, Susan A. S.; Nance, Matt; Sarquis, Arlyne M.; Hogue, Lynn M. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 608A.
Applications of Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Physical Properties |
Surface Science |
Water / Water Chemistry
New Analytical Method for the Determination of Detergent Concentration in Water by Fabric Dyeing  Set Seng, Masakazu Kita, and Reiko Sugihara
This article describes a high school classroom activity in which an acrylic fabric is used as the extraction medium in the analysis of detergent concentration rather than more harmful organic solvents. An handmade reflection photometer, assembled with inexpensive materials such as LED, PVC tube, and CdS sensor, is used to determine the detergent concentration.
Seng, Set; Kita, Masakazu; Sugihara, Reiko. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1803.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Dyes / Pigments |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Quantitative Analysis |
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry
Molecular Models of Dyes  William F. Coleman
The JCE Featured Molecules for this month include the triarylmethane and xanthene dyes fluorescein, erythrosin B, thymolphthalein, and rhodamine B.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1798.
Dyes / Pigments |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Gas Clathrate Hydrates Experiment for High School Projects and Undergraduate Laboratories  Melissa P. Prado, Annie Pham, Robert E. Ferazzi, Kimberly Edwards, and Kenneth C. Janda
Presents a procedure for preparing and studying propane clathrate hydrate. This experiment introduces students to this unusual solid while stimulating a discussion of the interplay of intermolecular forces, thermodynamics, and solid structure.
Prado, Melissa P.; Pham, Annie; Ferazzi, Robert E.; Edwards, Kimberly; Janda, Kenneth C. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1790.
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Applications of Chemistry |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry |
Gases |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Hydrogen Bonding
Concept Maps for General Chemistry   Boyd L. Earl
Two concept maps have been developed to represent the organization of the material in a first-semester general chemistry course. By providing these maps to students and referring to them in class, it is hoped that the instructor can assist students in maintaining a grasp of the "big picture" during the progress of the course.
Earl, Boyd L. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1788.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry |
Periodicity / Periodic Table
Origin of the Formulas of Dihydrogen and Other Simple Molecules  Andrew Williams
The logic and experimental data are described with which chemists originally deduced the formulas of fundamental substances such as H2, H2O, Cl2, NH3, CH4, and HCl. It is argued that high school and first-year undergraduate students would gain substantially from exposure to this process.
Williams, Andrew. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1779.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Dancing Crystals: A Dramatic Illustration of Intermolecular Forces  Donald W. Mundell
Crystals of naphthalene form on the surface of an acetone solution and dance about in an animated fashion illustrating surface tension, crystallization, and intermolecular forces. Additional experiments reveal the properties of the solution and previous demonstrations of surface motion are explored.
Mundell, Donald W. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1773.
Aromatic Compounds |
Liquids |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Surface Science |
Noncovalent Interactions
Incomplete Combustion of Hydrogen: Trapping a Reaction Intermediate  Bruce Mattson and Trisha Hoette
In this demonstration, a hydrogen flame is played across the face of an ice cube and the combustion is quenched in an incomplete state. The resulting solution contains a stable side-product, hydrogen peroxide, whose presence can be verified with two simple chemical tests.
Mattson, Bruce; Hoette, Trisha. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1668.
Descriptive Chemistry |
Free Radicals |
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Reactions |
Reactive Intermediates
Molecular Models of Compounds in Maple Syrup  William F. Coleman
This months Featured Molecules includes compounds found in honey and maple syrup.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1650.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Structures for the ABO(H) Blood Group: Which Textbook Is Correct?  John M. Risley
Six textbooks and two Internet sites show different structures for the A, B, and O(H) antigens of the ABO(H) blood group, but none of them are correct. This article emphasizes the correct molecular structures because it is important to distinguish between those carbohydrates that make up the antigens and those that are not part of the antigenic structures.
Risley, John M. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1546.
Bioorganic Chemistry |
Carbohydrates |
Natural Products |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Pre-Service Teacher as Researcher: The Value of Inquiry in Learning Science  Janice M. Hohloch, Nathaniel Grove, and Stacey Lowery Bretz
An action research project to reform a chemistry course required of elementary and middle childhood pre-service teachers incorporated a hands-on approach to learning chemistry, modeled teaching science through inquiry, and emphasized the value of research experience.
Hohloch, Janice M.; Grove, Nathaniel; Bretz, Stacey Lowery. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1530.
Chromatography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nonmajor Courses |
Professional Development |
Undergraduate Research |
Student-Centered Learning |
Standards National / State
Microscale Demonstration of the Paramagnetism of Liquid Oxygen with a Neodymium Magnet  Bruce Mattson
When a neodymium magnet is brought near a suspended glass tube containing a small amount of liquid oxygen, the tube is attracted to the magnet, demonstrating oxygen's paramagnetism. In larger quantities the blue color of liquid oxygen is readily observable.
Mattson, Bruce. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1296.
Descriptive Chemistry |
Gases |
Magnetic Properties |
MO Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Chemistry of Swimming Pool Maintenance  Carl Salter and David L. Langhus
This paper examines the key ideas behind swimming pool chemistry -- the central importance of pH and its effect on chlorine sanitation and calcium carbonate solubility. The paper also reviews the analytical procedures and common practices used to monitor and control pool chemistry or correct problems.
Salter, Carl; Langhus, David L. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1124.
Acids / Bases |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Dyes / Pigments |
pH |
Photochemistry |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Water / Water Chemistry
CARBOHYDECK: A Card Game To Teach the Stereochemistry of Carbohydrates  Manuel João Costa
This paper describes CARBOHYDECK, a card game that may replace or complement lectures identifying and differentiating monosaccharide isomers.
Costa, Manuel João. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 977.
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Carbohydrates |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Student-Centered Learning
A2: Element or Compound?  Marilyne Stains and Vicente Talanquer
Particulate questions are used to investigate the mental association between the concepts of molecule and compound in chemistry students with different levels of academic preparation. A significant proportion of students misclassify molecular elements as chemical compounds, and this association is stronger in students with higher levels of preparation.
Stains, Marilyne; Talanquer, Vicente. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 880.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular Models of DNA  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month are components of DNA and include purine and pyrimidine;the four corresponding deoxyribonucleosides and deoxyribonucleotides; a two-base-pair fragment showing the AT and GC hydrogen-bonded complements; several small 24-base-pair DNA fragmentspolyAT, polyGC; and a random array of bases.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 809.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Aromatic Bagels: An Edible Resonance Analogy  Shirley Lin
Describes a classroom demonstration involving the use of a bagel and cream cheese as an analogy for benzene that emphasizes the deficiencies of using a single Lewis structure to describe this structure.
Lin, Shirley. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 779.
Aromatic Compounds |
Lewis Structures |
Resonance Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Predicting the Stability of Hypervalent Molecules  Tracy A. Mitchell, Debbie Finocchio, and Jeremy Kua
In this exercise, students use concepts in thermochemistry such as bond energy, ionization potentials, and electron affinities to predict the relative stability of two hypervalent molecules (PF5 and PH5) relative to their respective non-hypervalent counterparts.
Mitchell, Tracy A.; Finocchio, Debbie; Kua, Jeremy. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 629.
Computational Chemistry |
Covalent Bonding |
Ionic Bonding |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Modeling |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Puzzling through General Chemistry: A Light-Hearted Approach to Engaging Students with Chemistry Content  Susan L. Boyd
Presents ten puzzles to make chemistry more interesting while reinforcing important concepts.
Boyd, Susan L. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 619.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry |
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table |
Stoichiometry |
VSEPR Theory |
Atomic Properties / Structure
Electronic Structure Principles and Aromaticity  P. K. Chattaraj, U. Sarkar, and D. R. Roy
Electronic structure principles dictate that aromatic molecules are associated with low energy, polarizability, and electrophilicity but high hardness values, while antiaromatic molecules possess the opposite characteristics. These relationships are demonstrated through B3LYP/6-311G** calculations on benzene and cyclobutadiene.
Chattaraj, P. K.; Sarkar, U.; Roy, D. R. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 354.
Aromatic Compounds |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Quantitative Analysis |
Theoretical Chemistry |
Alkenes |
Quantum Chemistry
Characterization of High Explosives and Other Energetic Compounds by Computational Chemistry and Molecular Modeling  John A. Bumpus, Anne Lewis, Corey Stotts, and Christopher J. Cramer
Four experiments suitable for use in the undergraduate instructional laboratory demonstrate the use of computational chemistry and molecular-modeling procedures to calculate selected physical and chemical properties of several high explosives and other energetic compounds.
Bumpus, John A.; Lewis, Anne; Stotts, Corey; Cramer, Christopher J. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 329.
Computational Chemistry |
Gases |
Physical Properties |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular Model of Zincon  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month are the tautomeric forms of the colorimetric reagent zincon. The structures could be used as an introduction to the concept of tautomerism, with students being asked to develop a definition of the term based on their observations of the difference(s) in linkage in the two forms.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 305.
Biological Cells |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Teaching Structure–Property Relationships: Investigating Molecular Structure and Boiling Point  Peter M. Murphy
The boiling points for 392 organic compounds are tabulated by carbon chain length and functional group to facilitate a wide range of inquiry-based activities that correlate the effects of chemical structure on physical properties.
Murphy, Peter M. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 97.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Popcorn—What's in the Bag?  Marissa B. Sherman and Thomas A. Evans
Three independent activities explore microwave popcorn, the nature of the packaging, and the popcorn produced.
Sherman, Marissa B.; Evans, Thomas A. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 416A.
Carbohydrates |
Nutrition |
Physical Properties |
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry
Let Us Give Lewis Acid–Base Theory the Priority It Deserves  Alan A. Shaffer
The Lewis concept is simple yet powerful in its scope, and can be used to help beginning students understand reaction mechanisms more fully. However, traditional approaches to acid-base reactions at the introductory level ignores Lewis acid-base theory completely, focusing instead on proton transfer described by the Br?nsted-Lowry concept.
Shaffer, Alan A. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1746.
Acids / Bases |
Lewis Acids / Bases |
Lewis Structures |
Mechanisms of Reactions |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory |
Covalent Bonding |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Molecular Model of Creatine Synthesis  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules for this month come from the synthesis of creatine and illustrate some of the limitations associated with the computation of molecular structure.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1657.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Bioorganic Chemistry
Astrochemistry Examples in the Classroom  Reggie L. Hudson
In this article some recent developments in astrochemistry are suggested as examples for the teaching of acid-base chemistry, molecular structure, and chemical reactivity. Suggestions for additional reading are provided, with an emphasis on readily-accessible materials.
Hudson, Reggie L. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1611.
Acids / Bases |
Astrochemistry |
IR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Fountain Pen Ink  William F. Coleman
This months Featured Molecules are involved in the composition and stability of inks and include gallic and gallotannic acid.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1568.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A Polymer in Everyday Life: The Isolation of Poly(vinyl alcohol) from Aqueous PVA Glues. An Undergraduate Chemistry Experiment   Yueh-Huey Chen and Jing-Fun Yaung
The IR spectra of three common and related polymers are used to identify functional groups and rationalize molecular structures.
Chen, Yueh-Huey; Yaung, Jing-Fun. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1534.
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Esters |
IR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Photochemical Oxidation of Bilirubin to Biliverdin  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules for this month are related to the photochemical oxidation of bilirubin to biliverdin. Biliverdin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin which is reduced by biliverdin reductase to bilirubin, the molecule that is responsible for neonatal jaundice.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1329.
Photochemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Using Physical Models of Biomolecular Structures To Teach Concepts of Biochemical Structure and Structure Depiction in the Introductory Chemistry Laboratory  Gordon A. Bain, John Yi, Mithra Beikmohamadi, Timothy M. Herman, and Michael A. Patrick
Custom-made physical models of alpha-helices and beta-sheets, the zinc finger moiety, beta-globin, and green fluorescent protein are used to introduce students in first-year chemistry to the primary, secondary, and tertiary structure of proteins.
Bain, Gordon A.; Yi, John; Beikmohamadi, Mithra; Herman, Timothy M.; Patrick, Michael A. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1322.
Amino Acids |
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nucleic Acids / DNA / RNA
A Unique Demonstration Model of DNA  Jonathan P. L. Cox
Describes a physical demonstration model of DNA for the classroom. The model comprises two types of building blocks that can be put together rapidly to produce an abstract structure that portrays several of the gross architectural features of idealized B-DNA.
Cox, Jonathan P. L. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1319.
Molecular Biology |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Student-Centered Learning |
Nucleic Acids / DNA / RNA
Classifying Matter: A Physical Model Using Paper Clips  Bob Blake, Lynn Hogue, and Jerry L. Sarquis
By using colored paper clips, students can represent pure substances, mixtures, elements, and compounds and then discuss their similarities and differences. This model is advantageous for the beginning student who would not know enough about the detailed composition of simple materials like milk, brass, sand, and air to classify them properly.
Blake, Bob; Hogue, Lynn; Sarquis, Jerry L. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1317.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Solids |
Student-Centered Learning
More on the Nature of Resonance  Robert C. Kerber
The author continues to find the use of delocalization preferable to resonance.
Kerber, Robert C. . J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1291.
Aromatic Compounds |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Resonance Theory |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols
More on the Nature of Resonance  William B. Jensen
Supplements a recent article on the interpretation of resonance theory with three additional observationsone historical and two conceptual.
Jensen, William B. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1290.
Aromatic Compounds |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Resonance Theory
Equilibrium Constants and Water Activity Revisited  David Keeports
Subtle arguments based upon the use of chemical potentials show that numerical values of solute molar concentrations can be used as good approximate activities in equilibrium calculations for reactions involving dilute solutions.
Keeports, David. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1290.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Alcohols
Equilibrium Constants and Water Activity Revisited  E. J. Behrman
In teaching the effects of structure on acid strength, it is useful to compare, inter alia, water with primary alcohols.
Behrman, E. J. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1290.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Alcohols
Equilibrium Constants and Water Activity Revisited  E. J. Behrman
In teaching the effects of structure on acid strength, it is useful to compare, inter alia, water with primary alcohols.
Behrman, E. J. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1290.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Alcohols
Copper and Nickel Complex Ions  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month include all eight isomeric forms of [Ni(en)3]2+, demonstrating the effects of ligand backbone conformation.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1248.
Amino Acids |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Amino Acids  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month are the 20 standard alpha-amino acids found in proteins. The molecules are presented in two formats, the neutral form and the ionized form found in solution at physiologic pH.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1103.
Amino Acids |
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics
Molecular Handshake: Recognition through Weak Noncovalent Interactions  Parvathi S. Murthy
This article traces the development of our thinking about molecular recognition through noncovalent interactions, highlights their salient features, and suggests ways for comprehensive education on this important concept.
Murthy, Parvathi S. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 1010.
Applications of Chemistry |
Biosignaling |
Membranes |
Molecular Recognition |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Chromatography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Polymerization |
Reactions
From "Greasy Chemistry" to "Macromolecule": Thoughts on the Historical Development of the Concept of a Macromolecule  Pedro J. Bernal
This paper presents a narrative about the historical development of the concept of a macromolecule. It does so to illustrate how the history of science might be used as a pedagogical tool to teach science, particularly to non-majors.
Bernal, Pedro J. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 870.
Colloids |
Nonmajor Courses |
Polymerization |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
The Great Wakonse Earthquake of 2003: A Short, Problem-Based Introduction to the Titration Concept  Brian P. Coppola, Amy C. Gottfried, Robyn L. Gdula, Alan L. Kiste, and Nathan W. Ockwig
This activity introduces nonscience adult learners to the concept of titration from real-world instructions about earthquake water safety found in a California phone book.
Coppola, Brian P.; Gottfried, Amy C.; Gdula, Robyn L.; Kiste, Alan L.; Ockwig, Nathan W. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 600.
Acids / Bases |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Qualitative Analysis |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry
The Chemistry of Popcorn: Polymers of Glucose  William F. Coleman
The Featured Molecules this month are all polymers of glucose and include cellobiose, maltose, 10-mer of cellulose, 40-mer of amylose, and an amylopectin fragment.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 413.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Carbohydrates
Teaching Chemistry Laboratory Skills in Industrial Contexts  Julianne M. Braun and Carol White
A recently completed project has produced a compilation of 40 laboratory experiments presented within the contexts of five major industries. This article provides a summary of these experiments, along with a discussion of ancillary materials.
Braun, Julianne M.; White, Carol. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 353.
Applications of Chemistry |
Industrial Chemistry |
Metals |
Polymerization |
Water / Water Chemistry
Mechanisms That Interchange Axial and Equatorial Atoms in Fluxional Processes: Illustration of the Berry Pseudorotation, the Turnstile, and the Lever Mechanisms via Animation of Transition State Normal Vibrational Modes  Marion E. Cass, King Kuok Hii, and Henry S. Rzepa
Teaching the Berry pseudorotation mechanism presents particular pedagogic problems due to both its dynamic and three dimensional character. The approach described here illustrates these processes using interactive animations embedded in a Web page.
Cass, Marion E.; Hii, King Kuok; Rzepa, Henry S. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 336.
Computational Chemistry |
Enantiomers |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Mechanisms of Reactions |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Nonmetals
Using Jmol To Help Students Better Understand Fluxional Processes   William F. Coleman and Edward W. Fedosky
This new WebWare neatly combines instructional text and Jmol interactive, animated illustrations to teach mechanisms that need to be clearly visualized in order to be well understood.
Coleman, William F.; Fedosky, Edward W. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 336.
Computational Chemistry |
Enantiomers |
Mechanisms of Reactions |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Nonmetals
Linking Laboratory Experiences to the Real World: The Extraction of Octylphenoxyacetic Acid from Water  Jorge E. Loyo-Rosales, Alba Torrents, Georgina C. Rosales-Rivera, and Clifford P. Rice
A known quantity of the sodium salt of octylphenoxyacetic acid is dissolved in water, transformed to the acid (insoluble) form, and extracted using dichloromethane. These changes can be followed visually owing to conspicuous changes in solution turbidity.
Loyo-Rosales, Jorge E.; Torrents, Alba; Rosales-Rivera, Georgina C.; Rice, Clifford P. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 248.
Acids / Bases |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
pH |
Stoichiometry |
Nonmajor Courses |
Water / Water Chemistry
An Interactive Environmental Science Course for Education Science Majors  Suzanne K. Lunsford and William Slattery
Describes an interactive environmental modular science course for education science majors preparing to become teachers at the primary and secondary levels. The purpose of the course is to give students experience in inquiry, gathering data, the evaluation of data to understand scientific theory, and the application of inquiry, hands-on methods in the classroom.
Lunsford, Suzanne K.; Slattery, William. J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 233.
Applications of Chemistry |
Geochemistry |
Nonmajor Courses |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Student-Centered Learning |
Standards National / State
If It's Resonance, What Is Resonating?  Robert C. Kerber
This article reviews the origin of the terminology associated with the use of more than one Lewis-type structure to describe delocalized bonding in molecules and how the original usage has evolved to reduce confusion
Kerber, Robert C. . J. Chem. Educ. 2006, 83, 223.
Aromatic Compounds |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Resonance Theory
The Nature of Hydrogen Bonding  Emeric Schultz
Students use toy connecting blocks and Velcro to investigate weak intermolecular interactions, specifically hydrogen bonds.
Schultz, Emeric. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 400A.
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Further Analysis of Boiling Points of Small Molecules, CHwFxClyBrz  Guy Beauchamp
Multiple linear regression analysis has proven useful in selecting predictor variables that could significantly clarify the boiling point variation of the CHwFxClyBrz molecules.
Beauchamp, Guy. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1842.
Chemometrics |
Physical Properties |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes
An Animated Interactive Overview of Molecular Symmetry  Marion E. Cass, Henry S. Rzepa, David R. Rzepa, and Charlotte K. Williams
An Animated Interactive Overview of Molecular Symmetry is a series of Web pages designed to help instructors teach molecular symmetry. These pages combine interactive images and instructional text that allow students to examine and explore the operations and elements that give rise to molecular symmetry.
Cass, Marion E.; Rzepa, Henry S.; Rzepa, David R.; Williams, Charlotte K. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1742.
Group Theory / Symmetry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
3D Molecular Symmetry Shockwave: A Web Application for Interactive Visualization and Three-Dimensional Perception of Molecular Symmetry  Nickolas D. Charistos, Constantinos A. Tsipis, and Michail P. Sigalas
3D Molecular Symmetry Shockwave is a Web-based application for interactive visualization and three-dimensional perception of molecular symmetry. The user interface is simple, and students learn how to use the program from the built-in help screens.
Charistos, Nickolas D.; Tsipis, Constantinos A.; Sigalas, Michail P. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1741.
Group Theory / Symmetry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Teaching Molecular Symmetry with JCE WebWare  William F. Coleman and Edward W. Fedosky
Presents two tools, 3D Molecular Symmetry Shockwave and An Animated Interactive Overview of Molecular Symmetry, that illustrate and help teach molecular symmetry.
Coleman, William F.; Fedosky, Edward W. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1741.
Computational Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Group Theory / Symmetry
The Use of the Free, Open-Source Program Jmol To Generate an Interactive Web Site To Teach Molecular Symmetry  Marion E. Cass and Henry S. Rzepa
Describes the use of Jmol, a free, open-source code program, for the presentation of interactive materials to teach molecular symmetry.
Cass, Marion E.; Rzepa, Henry S. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1736.
Group Theory / Symmetry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Using Visible Spectrophotometers and pH Measurements To Study Speciation in a Guided-Inquiry Laboratory   William H. Otto, Cynthia K. Larive, Susan L. Mason, Janet B. Robinson, Joseph A. Heppert, and James D. Ellis
A collective-effort, guided-inquiry laboratory investigation was developed for the second-semester general chemistry laboratory for the purpose of increasing student conceptual understanding of equilibrium and speciation phenomena. This investigation required students to employ the chemical indicator phenol red in phosphate buffer solution, computer interfaced pH probes, and visible spectrophotometers. Through a combination of potentiometric and visible absorption measurements, the students determined the pH conditions that alter equilibrium concentrations of multiple species (colored and transparent) in solution.
Otto, William H.; Larive, Cynthia K.; Mason, Susan L.; Robinson, Janet B.; Heppert, Joseph A.; Ellis, James D. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1552.
Acids / Bases |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Equilibrium |
pH |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Dyes / Pigments
Sedimentation Time Measurements of Soil Particles by Light Scattering and Determination of Chromium, Lead, and Iron in Soil Samples via ICP  Patricia Metthe Todebush and Franz M. Geiger
In this two-part general chemistry laboratory activity, students study soil samples from home and from campus. In part one, the samples are placed in water and the suspended colloid fraction is separated using filtration, followed by a determination of colloid sedimentation rates via light scattering. In part two, the solid phase of the soil samples is dissolved in acid and analyzed for chromium, lead, and iron using an inductively coupled plasma spectrometer. The experiment can be expanded to include arsenic. Through these experiments students can draw conclusions about the physical and chemical behavior of solid components in soil, paying particular attention to their propensity for transporting and chemically transforming pollutants in the environment.
Todebush, Patricia Metthe; Geiger, Franz M. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1542.
Colloids |
Geochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solids |
Surface Science |
Metals
Synthesis and Physical Properties of Liquid Crystals: An Interdisciplinary Experiment  Gerald R. Van Hecke, Kerry K. Karukstis, Hanhan Li, Hansford C. Hendargo, Andrew J. Cosand, and Marja M. Fox
This experiment features an investigative approach designed for the introductory science or engineering major and integrates concepts in the fields of chemistry, biology, and physics. Derived from faculty research interests, this novel experiment gives students the opportunity to draw conclusions from tests performed to illustrate the connection between molecular structure and macroscopic properties. The chemical synthesis of the compounds studied further enhances the connection between molecular structure and macroscopic physical properties. The results of two separate physical measurements, refractometry and absorption spectroscopy, are combined to calculate a microscopic, but very practical, property of chiral nematic liquidsthe pitch of the helix formed in the liquid crystalline phase.
Van Hecke, Gerald R.; Karukstis, Kerry K.; Li, Hanhan; Hendargo, Hansford C.; Cosand, Andrew J.; Fox, Marja M. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1349.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Acids / Bases |
Esters |
Physical Properties |
Physical Properties
The Chemistry of Coffee  William F. Coleman
The paper by Marino Petracco provides a hearty blend of molecules for this month. The author deals with coffee at a number of different levels ranging from the economic and social to the still perplexing questions of flavor and aroma. The associated molecules demonstrate a range of structural features that students will benefit from examining in three dimensions.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 1167.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
Equilibrium Constants and Water Activity  David Keeports
General chemistry instructors are faced with a dilemma when introducing the topic of equilibrium constants: These constants are correctly written in terms of activities, yet activity is a complex topic better treated rigorously in a physical chemistry course than superficially in a general chemistry course. Thus, to introduce equilibrium calculations, it is necessary to use approximate forms for equilibrium constants. However, I find that some commonly used textbooks provide incorrect arguments leading to approximate equilibrium constants for aqueous reactions.
Keeports, David. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 999.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry
Conceptual Considerations in Molecular Science  Donald T. Sawyer
The undergraduate curriculum and associated textbooks include several significant misconceptions.
Sawyer, Donald T. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 985.
Catalysis |
Covalent Bonding |
Electrolytic / Galvanic Cells / Potentials |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Reactions |
Reactive Intermediates |
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry
Misconceptions in Sign Conventions: Flipping the Electric Dipole Moment  James W. Hovick and J. C. Poler
Reexamination of a central concept from the perspective of a new subdiscipline should not introduce misconceptions about that concept. When misconceptions introduced through chemical language can be avoided, we should change the way we speak.
Hovick, James W.; Poler, J. C. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 889.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Noncovalent Interactions
8:31 a.m. Belly Flop: Attitude Adjustment through Weekly Feature Molecules  Sonya J. Franklin, Norbert J. Pienta, and Melissa D. Fry
A series of molecules or molecular systems were described to students in the second semester of general chemistry as a way to convey that "everything is a chemical", to demonstrate the relevance of chemistry in their everyday lives, and to promote student engagement in a class that was offered in the early morning.
Franklin, Sonya J.; Pienta, Norbert J.; Fry, Melissa D. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 847.
Descriptive Chemistry |
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Applications of Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Student-Centered Learning
Use Correct Projection  V. K. Kapoor
If a substituent in a two-dimensional representation of a three dimensional molecule is to be shown as lying below the plane of the paper it should be more appropriately indicated by an inverted broken wedge.
Kapoor, V. K. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 838.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Physical Chemistry at the Nanometer Scale  K. W. Hipps
An overview is provided of the Petroleum Research Fund sponsored summer school, "Physical Chemistry at the Nanometer Scale." Several articles resulting from the school (and printed in this issue) are introduced and placed in perspective from the standpoint of how they might be used in the undergraduate curriculum.
Hipps, K. W. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 693.
Materials Science |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nanotechnology |
Surface Science
Thermal Expansion: Using Calculator-Based Laboratory Technology To Observe the Anomalous Behavior of Water  Mario Branca and Isabella Soletta
This is a simple experiment to observe variations in the density of water and other liquids at different temperatures with CBL technology. Using it students can observe the anomalous behavior of water at temperatures between 0 C and 4 C.
Branca, Mario; Soletta, Isabella. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 613.
Liquids |
Physical Properties |
Water / Water Chemistry
Connected Chemistry  Mike Stieff
Connected Chemistry, a novel learning environment for teaching chemistry, is appropriate for use in both high school and undergraduate chemistry classrooms. Connected Chemistry comprises several molecular simulations designed to enable instructors to teach chemistry using the perspective of emergent phenomena. That is, it allows students to see observed macro-level chemical phenomena, like many other scientific phenomena, as resultant from the interactions of many individual agents on a micro-level.
Stieff, Mike. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 494.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Constructivism
Simple Dynamic Models for Hydrogen Bonding Using Velcro-Polarized Molecular Models  Emeric Schultz
This article describes the use of models that dynamically illustrate the unique characteristics of weak intermolecular interactions, specifically hydrogen bonds. The models clearly demonstrate that H-bonds can break and reform while covalent bonds stay intact. The manner in which the models form and break H-bonds reflects the geometric and statistical manner in which H-bonding actually occurs and is not contrived. The use of these models addresses a significant area of student misconceptions. The construction of these molecular models is described.
Schultz, Emeric. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 401.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
Hard Water and Soft Soap: Dependence of Soap Performance on Water Hardness. A Classroom Demonstration  Viktoria K. L. Osorio, Wanda de Oliveira, and Omar A. El Seoud
We describe a series of classroom demonstrations presented to high school students. The demonstrations were carried out to answer the question: Why does soap not foam in seawater? We generalized the question into: Why does soap performance depend on the hardness of the water used? A sequence of experiments was carried out to compare the performance of soap in soft and hard water and to illustrate the water-softening action of EDTA and zeolites.
Osorio, Viktoria K. L.; de Oliveira, Wanda; El Seoud, Omar A. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 257.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry
Mage: A Tool for Developing Interactive Instructional Graphics  Stephen F. Pavkovic
This article demonstrates some of the advantages of the Mage program: (i) construction of instructional Mage data files is straightforward and results in clear, geometrically correct images; (ii) Mage images may be viewed directly from a Java-capable Web page; (iii) several other formats may be converted to kinemages in order to use the Mage applet. This paper also discusses a related student activity.
Pavkovic, Stephen F. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 167.
Molecular Properties / Structure
A 3D Model of Double-Helical DNA Showing Variable Chemical Details  Susan G. Cady
A 3D double-helical DNA model, made by placing beads on a wire and stringing beads through holes in plastic canvas, is described. Suggestions are given to enhance the basic helical frame to show the shapes and sizes of the nitrogenous base rings, 3' and 5' chain termini, and base pair hydrogen bonding. Students can incorporate random or real gene sequence data into their models.
Cady, Susan G. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 79.
Biotechnology |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Nucleic Acids / DNA / RNA
A Set of Hands-On Exercises on Conformational Analysis  Silvina C. Pellegrinet and Ernesto G. Mata
This article describes a set of comprehensive exercises on conformational analysis that employs a hands-on approach by the use of molecular modeling kits. In addition, the exercises provide illustrations of other topics such as nomenclature, functional groups, and isomerism, and introduce some notions of chirality.
Pellegrinet, Silvina C.; Mata, Ernesto G. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 73.
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Conformational Analysis |
Constitutional Isomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
Capillary Electrophoresis Analysis of Cations in Water Samples. An Experiment for the Introductory Laboratory  Christopher J. Pursell, Bert Chandler, and Michelle M. Bushey
This experiment can be done in a lab, as a "dry-lab", or as an in-class exercise. Students explore a number of basic separation topics and work with figures of merit for real and meaningful samples. We have adopted a strategy where students encounter various instruments and methods of analyses multiple times throughout the curriculum. The level of sophistication in the exposures increases with the experience level of the students. Through this repeated exposure students will gain a better and fuller understanding of these methods than they would with a single exposure to the technique in the analytical or instrumental laboratory.
Pursell, Christopher J.; Chandler, Bert; Bushey, Michelle M. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 1783.
Electrophoresis |
Quantitative Analysis |
Separation Science |
Chemometrics |
Water / Water Chemistry
The Effect of Ionic Strength on the Solubility of an Electrolyte  Joan D. Willey
The theory of activity versus concentration is important in industrial, environmental, and biochemistry. The increase in solubility of an electrolyte in a solution of a second electrolyte with no common ions compared with pure water is not an easy concept to grasp because it seems to be counterintuitive. The simple experiment described here illustrates this principle visually and dramatically. Students attempt to dissolve CaSO42H2O (gypsum) in pure water and in 0.25 M NaCl.
Willey, Joan D. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 1644.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Sink Inserts for Flood Prevention  Fraser F. Fleming, Daniel J. Bodnar, and David L. Hardesty
A simple, inexpensive insert is described for preventing flooding in lab sinks. The insert is essentially a tube with slots cut into the side that fits snugly into the drain outlet, preventing water buildup and providing additional drainage sites to avoid constriction by small lab items and paper towels.
Fleming, Fraser F.; Bodnar, Daniel J.; Hardesty, David L. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 1344.
Laboratory Management |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Water / Water Chemistry
Chocolate: Theobromine and Caffeine  William F. Coleman
Theobromine and caffeine are both methyl-xanthines. Theobromine is a smooth muscle stimulant, while caffeine is predominately a central nervous system stimulant.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 1232.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Introduction of Mass Spectrometry in a First-Semester General Chemistry Laboratory Course: Quantification of MTBE or DMSO in Water  Mike Solow
An experiment has been developed to introduce first-semester general chemistry students to mass spectrometry. Students analyze water samples contaminated with a known compound, either DMSO or MTBE. Students are asked to determine the concentration of the compound in the water. In performing this experiment, students should learn (i) how the mass of an atom or molecule is determined, (ii) the effect of the presence of different isotopes on molecular mass, (iii) the role of an internal standard, and (iv) how mass spectrometry is used in answering various scientific questions.
Solow, Mike. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 1172.
Instrumental Methods |
Mass Spectrometry |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Gas Chromatography
Exploring the Structure–Function Relationship of Macromolecules at the Undergraduate Level  Belinda Pastrana-Rios
The undergraduate teaching initiatives discussed in this manuscript take advantage of a state-of-the-art visualization center devoted to teaching and research activities.
Pastrana-Rios, Belinda. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 837.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Biophysical Chemistry |
Biotechnology
How Many Digits Should We Use in Formula or Molar Mass Calculations?  Christer Svensson
This article addresses the question often asked by students, "How many digits should I use when calculating the formula or molar mass of a substance?
Svensson, Christer. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 827.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Learning Theories
Boron Clusters  William F. Coleman
The review paper by Russell N. Grimes on boron clusters reminds us both of the past impact that these interesting structures have had on the development of our understanding of cluster chemistry and on the future development of what one might refer to as "post-fullerene" clusters.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 768.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Boiling Point versus Mass  Michael Laing
I am very pleased that Ronald Rich has written making these comments, because he is pre-eminent in this field, beginning with his early book, Periodic Correlations.
Laing, Michael. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 642.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Liquids |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
Boiling Point versus Mass   Ronald L. Rich
Laing gave a useful examination of the boiling points of small molecules versus molecular mass. However, a molecule escaping from a liquid is not closely analogous to a satellite breaking free from the earths gravitational field with the requirement of a minimum escape velocity, such that the required kinetic energy is proportional to the mass of the satellite at that escape velocity.
Rich, Ronald L. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 642.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Liquids |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
The Singlet States of Molecular Oxygen   Jean-Pierre Puttemans and Georges Jannes
Although the purpose of the article The Visible Spectrum of Liquid Oxygen in the General Chemistry Laboratory is an analysis of the two-moleculesone-photon absorption spectrum of oxygen, it nevertheless assigns arrangements of the electrons in an energy diagram to the two singlet states of molecular oxygen which do not seem to be correct in our opinion.
Puttemans, Jean-Pierre; Jannes, Georges. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 639.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
The Singlet States of Molecular Oxygen   Jean-Pierre Puttemans and Georges Jannes
Although the purpose of the article The Visible Spectrum of Liquid Oxygen in the General Chemistry Laboratory is an analysis of the two-moleculesone-photon absorption spectrum of oxygen, it nevertheless assigns arrangements of the electrons in an energy diagram to the two singlet states of molecular oxygen which do not seem to be correct in our opinion.
Puttemans, Jean-Pierre; Jannes, Georges. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 639.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
The Big Picture  William F. Coleman
Fully manipulable Chime versions of important biological molecules (such as chlorophyll), inks (such as pen ink), CFCs, hydrocarbon fuels, plastics (such as Lexan polycarbonate), and molecules with medical applications (such as aspirin and novocaine).
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 604.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Kinetics of the Osmotic Hydration of Chickpeas  Gabriel Pinto and Ali Esin
An experiment examining the swelling of chickpeas as they are soaked in water is presented to introduce students to topics such as osmotic flow, mass transfer, diffusion, kinetics of hydration, modeling, and estimation of activation energy.
Pinto, Gabriel; Esin, Ali. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 532.
Kinetics |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Food Science |
Transport Properties
Using Science Fiction To Teach Thermodynamics: Vonnegut, Ice-nine, and Global Warming  Charles A. Liberko
When covering the topic of thermodynamics at the introductory level, an example from Kurt Vonnegut, Jr's, fictional novel, Cat's Cradle, is used to take what the students have learned and apply it to a new situation.
Liberko, Charles A. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 509.
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry
A Modular Laser Apparatus for Polarimetry, Nephelometry, and Fluorimetry in General Chemistry  Scott A. Darveau, Jessica Mueller, April Vaverka, Cheri Barta, Anthony Fitch, Jessica Jurzenski, and Yvonne Gindt
We present an apparatus suitable for multiple uses in the general chemistry laboratory including polarimetry, fluorescence, and nephelometry. The open design of the instrument also decreases the chance that students will contract the "black-box syndrome" that seems to develop when using instruments that only provide the final data in an experiment without showing how the measurements are obtained.
Darveau, Scott A.; Mueller, Jessica; Vaverka, April; Barta, Cheri; Fitch, Anthony; Jurzenski, Jessica; Gindt, Yvonne. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 401.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy |
Kinetics |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Lasers |
Spectroscopy |
Proteins / Peptides |
Water / Water Chemistry
Teaching Molecular Geometry with the VSEPR Model  Ronald J. Gillespie
The difficulties associated with the usual treatment of the VB and MO theories in connection with molecular geometry in beginning courses are discussed. It is recommended that the VB and MO theories should be presented only after the VSEPR model either in the general chemistry course or in a following course, particularly in the case of the MO theory, which is not really necessary for the first-year course.
Gillespie, Ronald J. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 298.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Main-Group Elements |
Theoretical Chemistry |
VSEPR Theory |
MO Theory
A Program of Computational Chemistry Exercises for the First-Semester General Chemistry Course  Scott E. Feller, Richard F. Dallinger, and Paul Caylor McKinney
A series of 13 molecular modeling exercises designed for the first-semester general chemistry course is described. The modeling exercises, which are used as both prelecture explorations and postlecture problems, increase in difficulty and in student independence.
Feller, Scott E.; Dallinger, Richard F.; McKinney, Paul Caylor. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 283.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Computational Chemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Magnetic Particle Technology. A Simple Preparation of Magnetic Composites for the Adsorption of Water Contaminants  Luiz C. A. Oliveira, Rachel V. R. A. Rios, José D. Fabris, Rochel M. Lago, and Karim Sapag
In this article a simple undergraduate laboratory experiment to produce magnetic adsorbents is described. These magnetic materials efficiently adsorb contaminants from water and can be easily removed from the medium by a simple magnetic separation process.
Oliveira, Luiz C.A.; Rios, Rachel V.R.A.; Fabris, José D.; Lago, Rochel M.; Sapag, Karim. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 248.
Green Chemistry |
Magnetic Properties |
Materials Science |
Separation Science |
Water / Water Chemistry
Well Wishes. A Case on Septic Systems and Well Water Requiring In-Depth Analysis and Including Optional Laboratory Experiments  Mary M. Walczak and Juliette M. Lantz
This paper describes the use of a case study to teach introductory chemistry students the chemical principles of solution concentration (especially ppm) and dilution, aqueous redox reactions, and stoichiometric conversions between different solution species.
Walczak, Mary M.; Lantz, Juliette M. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 218.
Consumer Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Stoichiometry
A "Polypeptide Demonstrator"  Addison Ault
I have used a telephone Handset Coil Cord as a simple and convenient model for the structure of a polypeptide.
Ault, Addison. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 196.
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chemistry Perfumes Your Daily Life  Anne-Dominique Fortineau
This article gives a brief history of perfumery.
Fortineau, Anne-Dominique. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 45.
Consumer Chemistry |
Natural Products |
Applications of Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Three-Dimensional Model for Water: Magnets as Dipoles  Samuel H. Yalkowsky and Jennifer L. H. Johnson
Reply to comments on original article.
Yalkowsky, Samuel H.; Johnson, Jennifer L. H. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 34.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Lipids |
Liquids |
Molecular Modeling |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry
Three-Dimensional Model for Water: Magnets as Chemical Bonds  Roy W. Clark
Concerns over students confusing electrical and magnetic fields.
Clark, Roy W. J. Chem. Educ. 2004, 81, 34.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Lipids |
Liquids |
Molecular Modeling |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry
Some Like It Cold: A Computer-Based Laboratory Introduction to Sequence and Tertiary Structure Comparison of Cold-Adapted Lactate Dehydrogenases Using Bioinformatics Tools  M. Sue Lowery and Leigh A. Plesniak
Students download sequences and structures from appropriate databases, create sequence alignments, and carry out molecular modeling exercises, and then form hypotheses about the mechanism of biochemical adaptation for function and stability. This laboratory is appropriate for biochemistry and molecular biology laboratory courses, special topics, and advanced biochemistry lecture courses, and can be adapted for honors high school programs.
Lowery, M. Sue; Plesniak, Leigh A. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 1300.
Enzymes |
Molecular Modeling |
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Properties / Structure
E-Mail Molecules—Individualizing the Large Lecture Class  Carl C. Wamser
All students in the organic chemistry class are assigned a unique set of nine molecules to report on as optional extra credit assignments. The molecules are taken from a list containing over 200 molecules on the class Web site; they represent an assortment of biologically relevant compounds, from acetaminophen to yohimbine.
Wamser, Carl C. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 1267.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Purple or Colorless—Which Way Up? An Entertaining Solubility Demonstration  Trevor M. Kitson
Discrepant demonstration involving immiscible mixture of water colored with potassium permanganate and hexane.
Kitson, Trevor M. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 892.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Laboratory Sequence in Computational Methods for Introductory Chemistry  Jason A. Cody and Dawn C. Wiser
Description of a four-week laboratory sequence that exposes students to instrumentation (FT-NMR, GC) and computational chemistry.
Cody, Jason A.; Wiser, Dawn C. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 793.
Chromatography |
Computational Chemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions |
MO Theory |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Gas Chromatography
Bubble Stripping To Determine Hydrogen Concentrations in Ground Water: A Practical Application of Henry's Law  Daniel M. McInnes and Don Kampbell
Applying Henry's law to determine the concentration of hydrogen in ground water as a means of identifying possible contamination by chlorinated organic compounds.
McInnes, Daniel M.; Kampbell, Don. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 516.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Gases |
Quantitative Analysis |
Applications of Chemistry
The Molecular Model Game  Stephanie A. Myers
Student teams must draw Lewis structures and build models of various molecules and polyatomic ions; different team members have different responsibilities.
Myers, Stephanie A. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 423.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Lewis Structures |
VSEPR Theory |
Enrichment / Review Materials
The Strange Case of Mole Airlines Flight 1023  Karl F. Jones
Forensic chemistry mystery / puzzle involving determining formulas based on chemical compositions.
Jones, Karl F. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 407.
Drugs / Pharmaceuticals |
Stoichiometry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Applications of Chemistry |
Forensic Chemistry
The Analysis of Seawater: A Laboratory-Centered Learning Project in General Chemistry  Jodye I. Selco, Julian L. Roberts, Jr., and Daniel B. Wacks
Experiment designed to introduce students to qualitative and quantitative analysis methods (gravimetric analysis, potentiometric titration, ion-selective electrodes, and atomic absorption and atomic emission spectroscopy) in the context of an overall analysis of an environmental sample.
Selco, Jodye I.; Roberts, Julian L., Jr.; Wacks, Daniel B. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 54.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Instrumental Methods |
Qualitative Analysis |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Gravimetric Analysis |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Ion Selective Electrodes |
Atomic Spectroscopy |
Potentiometry
Use of Chloroisocyanuarates for Disinfection of Water: Application of Miscellaneous General Chemistry Topics  Gabriel Pinto and Brian Rohrig
Using the chlorination of water (using sodium dichloroisocyanurate and trichloroisocyanuric acid) to develop general chemistry concepts; includes question for students and answers.
Pinto, Gabriel; Rohrig, Brian. J. Chem. Educ. 2003, 80, 41.
Stoichiometry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Photochemistry
Understanding and Interpreting Molecular Electron Density Distributions  C. F. Matta and R. J. Gillespie
A simple introduction to the electron densities of molecules and how they can be analyzed to obtain information on bonding and geometry.
Matta, C. F.; Gillespie, R. J. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 1141.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Quantum Chemistry |
Theoretical Chemistry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
VSEPR Theory
A Three-Dimensional Model for Water  J. L. H. Johnson and S. H. Yalkowsky
Using Molymod spheres and magnets to simulate the structure and properties of water and aqueous systems.
Johnson, J. L. H.; Yalkowsky, S. H. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 1088.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Covalent Bonding |
Lipids |
Liquids |
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
Correction to Featured Molecule of July 2002 (re J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 772)  
Correct formula of anthracene.
J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 1071.
Laboratory Management |
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Structure and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. An Experiment for the General Chemistry Laboratory  Rosa M. Dávila and R. K. Widener
Lab exercise to introduce first-year students to the concepts of functional groups and isomerism, as well as using NMR spectroscopy to determine simple molecular structures.
Dávila, Rosa M.; Widener, R. K. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 997.
NMR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Instrumental Methods
A Structure–Activity Investigation of Photosynthetic Electron Transport. An Interdisciplinary Experiment for the First-Year Laboratory  Kerry K. Karukstis, Gerald R. Van Hecke, Katherine A. Roth, and Matthew A. Burden
Investigation in which students measure the effect of several inhibitors (herbicides) on the electron transfer rate in chloroplasts and formulate a hypothesis between the inhibitor's activity and its structure as a means of using a physical technique to measure a chemical process in a biological system.
Karukstis, Kerry K.; Van Hecke, Gerald R.; Roth, Katherine A.; Burden, Matthew A. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 985.
Biophysical Chemistry |
Electrochemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Aromatic Compounds |
Plant Chemistry
An Evergreen: The Tetrahedral Bond Angle  Marten J. ten Hoor
Summary and analysis of derivations of the tetrahedral bond angle.
ten Hoor, Marten J. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 956.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Modern Sport and Chemistry: What a Chemically Aware Sports Fanatic Should Know  Guinevere A. Giffin, Steven R. Boone, Renée S. Cole, Scott E. McKay, and Robert Kopitzke
Summary of the chemistry of a variety of sports and athletics; topics include golf, football, tennis, and hockey, as well as sports medicine, performance-enhancing drugs, sports supplements and drinks, and the couch potato.
Giffin, Guinevere A.; Boone, Steven R.; Cole, Renée S.; McKay, Scott E.; Kopitzke, Robert. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 813.
Consumer Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
News from Online: What's New with Chime?  Liz Dorland
The Chime plug-in, resources, materials for student and classroom use, and structure libraries.
Dorland, Liz. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 778.
Molecular Properties / Structure
How We Teach Molecular Structure to Freshmen  Michael O. Hurst
Examination of how textbooks discuss various aspects of molecular structure; conclusion that much of general chemistry is taught the way it is for historical and not pedagogical reasons.
Hurst, Michael O. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 763.
Covalent Bonding |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Lewis Structures |
VSEPR Theory |
Valence Bond Theory |
MO Theory
A Simple Experiment for the Determination of Molecular Weights of Gases Lighter Than Air  Van T. Lieu and Gene E. Kalbus
A simple method for the determination of molecular weights of gases lighter than air.
Lieu, Van T.; Kalbus, Gene E. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 473.
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
The Visible Spectrum of Liquid Oxygen in the General Chemistry Laboratory  Frazier Nyasulu, John Macklin, and William Cusworth III
Examination of the spectrum of liquid oxygen and testing several hypotheses to explain the pattern of spectral lines observed.
Nyasulu, Frazier; Macklin, John; Cusworth, William, III. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 356.
MO Theory |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Spontaneous Assembly of Soda Straws  D. J. Campbell, E. R. Freidinger, J. M. Hastings, and M. K. Querns
Demonstrating spontaneous assembly using soda straws.
Campbell, D. J.; Freidinger, E. R.; Hastings, J. M.; Querns, M. K. J. Chem. Educ. 2002, 79, 201.
Materials Science |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nanotechnology |
Surface Science |
Thermodynamics
A Discovery-Based Experiment Illustrating How Iron Metal Is Used to Remediate Contaminated Groundwater  Barbara A. Balko and Paul G. Tratnyek
Procedure in which students investigate the chemistry of iron-permeable reactive barriers and their application to the remediation of contaminated groundwater.
Balko, Barbara A.; Tratnyek, Paul G. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1661.
Kinetics |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Metals |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
"Dishing Out" Stereochemical Principles  Harold Hart
Demonstrating the concepts of chiral centers and enantiomers using plastic dishes.
Hart, Harold. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1632.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Modeling |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Enantiomers
Humic Acids: Marvelous Products of Soil Chemistry  Geoffrey Davies, Elham A. Ghabbour, and Cornelius Steelink
Classification, physical and chemical characteristics, formation, structure and sources of humic substances.
Davies, Geoffrey; Ghabbour, Elham A.; Steelink, Cornelius. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1609.
Agricultural Chemistry |
Metals |
Natural Products |
Plant Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Boiling Points of the Family of Small Molecules CHwFxClyBrz: How Are They Related to Molecular Mass?  Michael Laing
Investigating the role of molecular mass in determining boiling points of small molecules.
Laing, Michael. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1544.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Liquids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Teaching Brønsted-Lowry Acid-Base Theory in a Direct Comprehensive Way  Jamie L. Adcock
Unifying all the Bronsted-Lowry acid-base concepts in a quantitative way.
Adcock, Jamie L. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1495.
Acids / Bases |
Equilibrium |
Learning Theories |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
The Use of Stick Figures to Visualize Fischer Projections  Laurie S. Starkey
Using stick figures to help students visualize the three-dimensional orientations represented by Fischer projections.
Starkey, Laurie S. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1486.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Modeling
Demonstrating Chirality: Using a Mirror with Physical Models to Show Non-superimposability of Chiral Molecules with Their Mirror Images  Michael J. Collins
Using a mirror with physical models to show non-superimposability of chiral molecules with their mirror images.
Collins, Michael J. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1484.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Role of Lewis Structures in Teaching Covalent Bonding  S. R. Logan
Difficulties with the Lewis theory of covalent bonding and upgrading it to the Molecular Orbital theory.
Logan, S. R. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1457.
Covalent Bonding |
MO Theory |
Nonmajor Courses |
Learning Theories |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Using Computer-Based Visualization Strategies to Improve Students' Understanding of Molecular Polarity and Miscibility  Michael J. Sanger and Steven M. Badger II
Study of how the use of visualization strategies associated with dynamic computer animations and electron density plots affect students' conceptual understanding of molecular polarity and miscibility.
Sanger, Michael J.; Badger, Steven M., II. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1412.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Solutions / Solvents |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics
The Purification of Water by Freeze-Thaw or Zone Melting  James Oughton, Silas Xu, and Rubin Battino
Quantitative investigation of the purification of slat water solutions through the process of partial freezing.
Oughton, James; Xu, Silas; Battino, Rubin. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1373.
Conductivity |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Separation Science |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Blood-Chemistry Tutorials: Teaching Biological Applications of General Chemistry Material  Rachel E. Casiday, Dewey Holten, Richard Krathen, and Regina F. Frey
Four, Web-based tutorials that deal with chemical processes in the blood and provide an integrated biological context for a variety of chemical concepts.
Casiday, Rachel E.; Holten, Dewey; Krathen, Richard; Frey, Regina F. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1210.
Applications of Chemistry |
Medicinal Chemistry |
Proteins / Peptides |
Acids / Bases |
Equilibrium |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A Microscale Spectrophotometric Determination of Water Hardness  James S. Gordon
Measuring water hardness using EDTA as a titrant, calmagite as an indicator, a colorimeter, and a graphing calculator.
Gordon, James S. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 1089.
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis
Lewis Structures in General Chemistry: Agreement between Electron Density Calculations and Lewis Structures  Gordon H. Purser
The internuclear electron densities of a series of X-O bonds (where X = P, S, or Cl) are calculated using quantum mechanics and compared to Lewis structures for which the formal charges have been minimized; a direct relationship is found between the internuclear electron density and the bond order predicted from Lewis structures in which formal charges are minimized.
Purser, Gordon H. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 981.
Covalent Bonding |
Computational Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Lewis Structures |
Quantum Chemistry
Chemical Laboratory Information Profile: Water  Jay A. Young
Properties, hazards, and storage requirements for water.
Young, Jay A. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 874.
Laboratory Management |
Physical Properties |
Water / Water Chemistry
Molecular Modeling in the Undergraduate Chemistry Curriculum  Martin B. Jones
Project to expose all chemistry students at all levels to computer-based molecular modeling.
Jones, Martin B. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 867.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Introducing Stereochemistry to Non-science Majors  Hannia Luján-Upton
Two exercises to introduce concepts associated with stereochemistry such as "sameness", superimposability, chirality, enantiomers, optical activity, polarimetry, and racemic mixtures; one compares chirality in hands with the achiral nature of two textbooks, the other involves a murder mystery.
Luján-Upton, Hannia. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 475.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Stereochemistry |
Nonmajor Courses |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Protein Structure Wordsearch  Terry L. Helser
Puzzle with 37 names, terms, prefixes, and acronyms that describe protein structure.
Helser, Terry L. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 474.
Proteins / Peptides |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Dog with Ball Joins Flying Bird
(re J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1656)  Richard S. Treptow
Comparing structural models to simple figures.
Treptow, Richard S. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 31.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Carboxylic Acids |
Molecular Modeling
Infrared Spectroscopy in the General Chemistry Lab  Margaret A. Hill
Three laboratory exercises in which students learn to interpret infrared spectra for simple structural identification. A polymer identification lab uses familiar household polymer samples and teaches students how to use infrared spectral data to determine what bond types are present in the polymers. In a second lab, students learn to prepare potassium bromide pellets of fluorene derivatives and identify them by their functional group differences. The final exercise combines IR with several other lab techniques to identify an organic acid from a field of fourteen possibilities.
Hill, Margaret A. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 26.
Instrumental Methods |
IR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Science Teacher: Winter Break 2001  Steve Long
Summary or chemistry-related articles in the May through November 2000 issues of The Science Teacher.
Long, Steve. J. Chem. Educ. 2001, 78, 22.
Acids / Bases |
Forensic Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry |
Agricultural Chemistry
No, the Molecular Mass of Bromobenzene Is Not 157 amu: An Exercise in Mass Spectrometry and Isotopes for Early General Chemistry  Steven M. Schildcrout
Even with no background in bonding and structure, students can successfully interpret the output of a modern research instrument. They learn to identify an isotope pattern, assign chemical formulas to ions giving mass spectral peaks, calculate an average atomic weight (for bromine) from measured isotopic abundances, and write balanced equations for ion fragmentation reactions.
Schildcrout, Steven M. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 1433.
Isotopes |
Mass Spectrometry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Thermodynamics of Water Superheated in the Microwave Oven  B. H. Erné
Water is conveniently heated above its normal boiling point in a microwave oven in a glass microwave oven teapot. Water stops boiling soon after heating is interrupted, but subsequently added rough particles can still act as nucleation centers for a brief, spectacular burst of steam bubbles. The heat to make those steam bubbles obviously comes from the water itself, so that one can conclude that the boiling water was superheated, which is confirmed with a thermometer.
Erné, B. H. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 1309.
Thermodynamics |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Liquids
The Other Double Helix--The Fascinating Chemistry of Starch  Robert D. Hancock and Bryon J. Tarbet
The chemistry of starch, particularly the structure of starch and starch granules.
Hancock, Robert D.; Tarbet, Bryon J. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 988.
Bioorganic Chemistry |
Carbohydrates |
Food Science |
Stereochemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Weak vs Strong Acids and Bases: The Football Analogy  Todd P. Silverstein
A football analogy for acids and bases in which acids are compared to quarterbacks, whose job is to get rid of the ball (H+). A strong acid, like an excellent quarterback, delivers the ball effectively; a weak acid, like a poor quarterback, is often left holding the ball. Furthermore, bases may be likened to wide receivers, whose job is to catch and hold onto the ball (H+).
Silverstein, Todd P. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 849.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Reply to Coulombic Models in Chemical Bonding  Smith, Derek W.
Coulombic vs molecular orbital models for explaining the molecular shapes of ionic molecules.
Smith, Derek W. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 445.
Ionic Bonding |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory
Coulombic Models in Chemical Bonding  Sacks, Lawrence J.
Coulombic vs molecular orbital models for explaining the molecular shapes of ionic molecules.
Sacks, Lawrence J. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 445.
Ionic Bonding |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory
Drawing Lewis Structures from Lewis Symbols: A Direct Electron-Pairing Approach  Wan-Yaacob Ahmad and Mat B. Zakaria
We describe a different, more student-friendly approach to writing Lewis structures for covalent molecules and ions based on Lewis theory and Abegg's rule. Several rules for selecting central atoms are provided. Separate sets of rules are provided for diatomic molecules and ions and for polyatomic molecules and ions.
Ahmad, Wan-Yaacob; Zakaria, Mat B. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 329.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Lewis Structures
Correction to Using Overhead Projectors to Simulate X-ray Diffraction Experiments.  Dragojlovic, Veljko
Correction to Figure 1 [1999, 76, 1240-1241]
Dragojlovic, Veljko J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 160.
Crystals / Crystallography |
X-ray Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Determination of the Fundamental Electronic Charge via the Electrolysis of Water  Brittany Hoffman, Elizabeth Mitchell, Petra Roulhac, Marc Thomes, and Vincent M. Stumpo
In an illuminating experiment suitable for secondary school students, a Hoffman electrolysis apparatus is employed to determine the fundamental electronic charge. The volume and pressure of hydrogen gas produced via the electrolysis of water during a given time interval are measured.
Hoffman, Brittany; Mitchell, Elizabeth; Roulhac, Petra; Thomes, Marc; Stumpo, Vincent M. J. Chem. Educ. 2000, 77, 95.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Electrochemistry |
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Liver and Onions: DNA Extraction from Animal and Plant Tissues  Karen J. Nordell, Anne-Marie L. Jackelen, S. Michael Condren, George C. Lisensky, and Arthur B. Ellis*
This activity, which allows students to extract DNA from plant and animal cells, serves as a spectacular example of the complexity of biochemical structure and function and fits well with a discussion of nucleic acids, hydrogen bonding, genetic coding, and heredity. DNA extraction can also be used in conjunction with a discussion of polymers and their properties.
Nordell, Karen J.; Jackelen, Anne-Marie L.; Condren, S. Michael; Lisensky, George C.; Ellis, Arthur B. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 400A.
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nucleic Acids / DNA / RNA
A Comment on Molecular Geometry   Frank J. Gomba
A method of determining the correct molecular geometry of simple molecules and ions with one central atom is proposed. While the usual method of determining the molecular geometry involves first drawing the Lewis structure, this method can be used without doing so. In fact, the Lewis structure need not be drawn at all. The Lewis structure may be drawn as the final step, with the geometry of the simple molecule or ion already established.
Gomba, Frank J. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1732.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Remediation of Water Contaminated with an Azo Dye: An Undergraduate Laboratory Experiment Utilizing an Inexpensive Photocatalytic Reactor  John A. Bumpus, Jennifer Tricker, Ken Andrzejewski, Heather Rhoads, and Matthew Tatarko
The construction and use of an inexpensive photocatalytic reactor that utilizes titanium dioxide as the photocatalyst for wastewater treatment is described. In these experiments and in supplementary material, students are made aware that a variety of techniques have been developed to treat wastewaters, including those generated by the chemical industry. Water contaminated with the azo dye Congo Red was selected as an example of how one might treat contaminated water from a textile manufacturing facility.
Bumpus, John A.; Tricker, Jennifer; Andrzejewski, Ken; Rhoads, Heather; Tatarko, Matthew. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1680.
Photochemistry |
Dyes / Pigments |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Applications of Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Pesticides in Drinking Water: Project-Based Learning within the Introductory Chemistry Curriculum  Patricia B. O'Hara, Jon A. Sanborn, and Meredith Howard
A new introductory chemistry module is described, which has as its central theme the measurement of trace levels of these xenoestrogens in the form of pesticides in the Town of Amherst's public drinking water. After a basic introduction to sample handling and measurement of pH, temperature, and conductivity, the students travel in small groups to several sites to collect water and perform preliminary characterization of their samples.
OHara, Patricia B.; Sanborn, Jon A.; Howard, Meredith. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1673.
Mass Spectrometry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Toxicology |
Applications of Chemistry
Learning Quality Assurance/Quality Control Using U.S. EPA Techniques. An Undergraduate Course for Environmental Chemistry Majors  Susan M. Libes
In the environmental realm, quality control (QC) includes activities associated with sampling, sample preservation and storage, method validation, and analysis involving solids, liquids, and gases. Students should be led to discover the need for QC by first performing analyses with little guidance. This is followed by a class discussion in which they critique their data.
Libes, Susan. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1642.
Instrumental Methods |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry
Using TOPEX Satellite El Niño Altimetry Data to Introduce Thermal Expansion and Heat Capacity Concepts in Chemistry Courses  Harvey F. Blanck
Warm water is less dense than cool water and will float somewhat like ice, with a portion above the surface of the cooler surrounding water. The height of the bump can be used to estimate the excess thermal energy in the warmer water.
Blanck, Harvey F. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1635.
Liquids |
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Calorimetry / Thermochemistry
The Solubility of Ionic Solids and Molecular Liquids  C. Baer and Sheila M. Adamus
The solubilities of three ionic salts (NaCl, PbCl2, and KAl(SO4)2.12H2O) in water are measured at four temperatures. The concept of recrystallization is introduced as students cool a high-temperature solution and observe crystal formation. Spreadsheet calculations are performed with the group data, which are then graphed, and students observe the wide variance in solubility behavior for the three salts.
Baer, Carl; Adamus, Sheila M. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1540.
Noncovalent Interactions |
Laboratory Computing / Interfacing |
Liquids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Solutions / Solvents
The Softening of Hard Water and Complexometric Titrations: An Undergraduate Experiment  Helena Ceretti, Enrique A. Hughes, and Anita Zalts
An experiment in which (i) water hardness is explained and demonstrated; (ii) ion-exchange resin properties are visually demonstrated and then used for softening water; (iii) complexometric titrations are used for evaluating water hardness before and after softening; and (iv) acid-base titration can be used to show that the Ca/Mg ions removed by the ion exchanger are replaced by H ions.
Ceretti, Helena; Hughes, Enrique A.; Zalts, Anita. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1420.
Ion Exchange |
Quantitative Analysis |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Acids / Bases
Experiments with Zeolites at the Secondary-School Level: Experience from The Netherlands  Eric N. Coker, Pamela J. Davis, Aonne Kerkstra, and Herman van Bekkum
This article describes a number of experiments that involve zeolites and are suitable for secondary-school chemistry laboratories. Students test the hardness of tap water before and after treatment with some zeolite and perform tests with a range of commercial laundry detergents containing zeolites.
Coker, Eric N.; Davis, Pamela J.; Kerkstra, Aonne; van Bekkum, Herman. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1417.
Ion Exchange |
Catalysis |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Cleaning Up with Chemistry: Investigating the Action of Zeolite in Laundry Detergent  
In this activity, you will investigate the properties of one ingredient, aluminosilicate. The particular aluminosilicate used in powdered laundry detergent is sodium zeolite A. In this activity, you will extract sodium zeolite A from powdered laundry detergent and examine its properties.
J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1416A.
Materials Science |
Consumer Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Separation Science |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Ion Exchange
Using Overhead Projector to Simulate X-ray Diffraction Experiments  Veljko Dragojlovic
A demonstration to simulate X-ray diffraction experiments can be performed using an overhead projector. As a classroom activity, the spacing between the lines of a grating or, once the spacing is known, the wavelength of diffracted light can be calculated.
Dragojlovic, Veljko. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1240.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
X-ray Crystallography
Relative Humidity  R. Bruce Martin
Daily we hear reports of relative humidity, yet most students remain unfamiliar with its import. This short article defines and describes the concept at several levels. A new, general interest, isobaric plot directly indicates the dependence of relative humidity on temperature.
Martin, R. Bruce. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1081.
Consumer Chemistry |
Gases |
Nonmajor Courses |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry
The Use of Molecular Modeling and VSEPR Theory in the Undergraduate Curriculum to Predict the Three-Dimensional Structure of Molecules  Brian W. Pfennig and Richard L. Frock
Despite the simplicity and elegance of the VSEPR model, however, students often have difficulty visualizing the three-dimensional shapes of molecules and learning the more subtle features of the model, such as the bond length and bond angle deviations from ideal geometry that accompany the presence of lone pair or multiple bond domains or that result from differences in the electronegativity of the bonded atoms, partial charges and molecular dipole moments, and site preferences in the trigonal bipyramidal electron geometry.
Pfennig, Brian W.; Frock, Richard L. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1018.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
VSEPR Theory
Lewis Structures Are Models for Predicting Molecular Structure, Not Electronic Structure  Gordon H. Purser
This article argues against a close relationship between Lewis dot structures and electron structure obtained from quantum mechanical calculations. Lewis structures are a powerful tool for structure prediction, though they are classical models of bonding and do not predict electronic structure.
Purser, Gordon H. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 1013.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Computational Chemistry |
Quantum Chemistry |
MO Theory |
Learning Theories |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Modeling
Predicting Acid-Base Titration Curves without Calculations  Dennis W. Barnum
In this paper a qualitative and systematic method for sketching titration curves is presented. Even the more complex cases such as salts or polyprotic acids and bases are treated just as easily as simple monoprotic acids. Having students predict the shape of titration curves from known equilibrium constants helps to focus attention on the general principles without distraction by the mathematics.
Barnum, Dennis W. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 938.
Acids / Bases |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Learning Theories |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Chemometrics
Illustrating Newman Projections by Using Overhead Transparencies  L. Phillip Silverman and John Barbaro
A method of illustrating the Newman projection of a molecule using an overhead projector is described. This method, which uses two overhead transparencies linked by a thumbtack, provides both an easy and a clear way to present this type of conformational analysis to large lecture classes.
Silverman, L. Phillip; Barbaro, John. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 630.
Learning Theories |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A Way To Predict the Relative Stabilities of Structural Isomers  John M. Lyon
This paper discusses a method to evaluate the relative stabilities of structural isomers of inorganic and organic compounds. The method uses a simple set of rules that can be applied with only a knowledge of the electron configuration of the atoms and the periodic trends in atomic size.
Lyon, John M. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 364.
Covalent Bonding |
Diastereomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Chemistry of Water (by Susan E. Kegley and Joy Andrews)  Debra J. McCool
The Chemistry of Water is a super book. It is more than a textbook, more than a lab manual. There is a great amount of good chemistry packed into its 160 pages. This module looks at the purity of water and methods to assess water quality.
McCool, Debra J. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 326.
Water / Water Chemistry
A Novel Multipurpose Model Set for Teaching General Chemistry  H. O. Gupta and Brahm Parkash
Teaching general chemistry requires a simple and inexpensive model set capable of demonstrating all the common structures in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. This paper describes our endeavour to develop such a model set.
Gupta, H. O.; Parkash, Brahm. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 204.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Effect of Experience on Retention and Elimination of Misconceptions about Molecular Structure and Bonding  James P. Birk and Martha J. Kurtz
A test designed to uncover misconceptions in molecular structure and bonding was administered to students from high school through graduate school and to some college faculty. The study tracked the disappearance of these misconceptions over a time span of 10 years of student experience, along with the development of accepted conceptions.
Birk, James P.; Kurtz , Martha J. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 124.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Learning Theories
Spectroscopy of Simple Molecules  C. Baer and K. Cornely
A spectroscopy experiment in which students utilize IR and NMR spectroscopy to identify the structures of three unknowns from a list of 15 carefully chosen simple organic molecules. In taking IR and NMR spectra, students learn to use state-of-the-art instrumentation that is used by practicing chemists.
Baer, Carl; Cornely, Kathleen. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 89.
Instrumental Methods |
IR Spectroscopy |
NMR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chain Gang-The Chemistry of Polymers (edited by Mickey Sarquis)  David M. Collard
After a brief introduction to some basic concepts, the book presents a series of 23 polymer experiments spanning topics of chemistry, physical properties, analysis, and processing. Each experiment is recommended as either a hands-on activity or demonstration for various grade levels. A guide for the teacher suggests how the experiment can be used to illustrate topics in the science curriculum.
Collard, David M. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 32.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Cut-Out Molecular Models  Silva, Ana Luisa; Fernandes, Carla; Wasterlain, Olivier; Costa, Sandra; Mendes, Ana Maria.
Suggestions for improvement to the original demonstration.
Silva, Ana Luisa; Fernandes, Carla; Wasterlain, Olivier; Costa, Sandra; Mendes, Ana Maria. J. Chem. Educ. 1999, 76, 28.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry
Spring Shock!: Impact of Spring Snowmelt on Lakes and Streams  Judith A. Halstead
This activity uses frozen vinegar to demonstrate that what melts first forms a liquid more concentrated in acetic acid than normal vinegar. As melting continues, the concentration of acetic acid decreases and the pH goes up.
Judith A. Halstead. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 400A.
Acids / Bases |
Water / Water Chemistry
Identifying Bottled Water: A Problem-Solving Exercise in Chemical Identification  Richard L. Myers
Students are challenged to identify water samples using the known chemical analyses of bottled waters. Several common water quality measurements such as hardness, alkalinity, and ion analysis can be used by students to identify the unknown water. This exercise develops problem-solving skills as students become familiar with basic lab techniques, quality control, data interpretation, and standard methods.
Myers, Richard L. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1585.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Qualitative Analysis |
Consumer Chemistry
Stereowordimers-Minding Your P's and Q's  Edward G. Neeland
The use of words having different colored sides is a excellent way to introduce stereochemical concepts that might not be easily grasped when using molecular examples. We have found that concepts such as enantiomers, diastereomers, identical molecules, chirality, achirality, mirror planes of symmetry, and internal planes of symmetry are readily understood by students when using stereowordimer examples.
Neeland, Edward G. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1573.
Stereochemistry |
Diastereomers |
Enantiomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Vanillin (the author replies)  Hocking, Martin
Additional information regarding salicylic acid.
Hocking, Martin J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1203.
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Applications of Chemistry |
Medicinal Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Vanillin  Calloway, Dean
Incorrect structural formula for methyl salicylate.
Calloway, Dean J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1203.
Medicinal Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Letters  
Incorrect structural formula for methyl salicylate.
J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1203.
Medicinal Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Tetrahedral Bond Angle  Ferreira, Ricardo
Easy way to calculate the terahedral bond angle.
Ferreira, Ricardo J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 1087.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Intermolecular Forces in Introductory Chemistry Studied by Gas Chromatography, Computer Models, and Viscometry  Jonathan C. Wedvik, Charity McManaman, Janet S. Anderson, and Mary K. Carroll
Students performing gas chromatographic (GC) analyses of mixtures of n-alkanes and samples that simulate crime scene evidence discover that liquid mixtures can be separated rapidly into their components based upon intermolecular forces. Each group of students is given a liquid sample that simulates one collected at an arson scene, and the group is required to determine the identity of the accelerant. Students also examine computer models to better visualize how molecular structure affects intermolecular forces: London forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonding.
Wedvik, Jonathan C.; McManaman, Charity; Anderson, Janet S.; Carroll, Mary K. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 885.
Theoretical Chemistry |
Chromatography |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Gas Chromatography |
Molecular Modeling |
Forensic Chemistry |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Models and Molecules - A Workshop on Stereoisomers  Robert W. Baker, Adrian V. George, and Margaret M. Harding
A molecular model workshop aimed at first year university undergraduates has been devised to illustrate the concepts of organic stereochemistry. The students build models to teach the relationship within, and between, conformational isomers, enantiomers, and diastereomers.
Baker, Robert W.; George, Adrian V.; Harding, Margaret M. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 853.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Enantiomers |
Diastereomers
Illustrating Tetrahedral Carbons in Organic Compounds  Stella D. Elakovich
This paper describes a method of illustrating the tetrahedral nature of carbons using an overhead projector and molecular models.
Stella D. Elakovich. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 479.
Learning Theories |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Simplified Lewis Structure Drawing for Nonscience Majors  Barnabe B. Miburo
Lewis structures are drawn using a simplified novel method with the following features: 1) the atoms used are brought in carrying all their valence electrons; 2) bonds are created by pairing up valence electrons between the central atoms and peripheric atoms; 3) anions are formed by addition of electrons to single electrons on appropriate atoms, while cations are formed by removal of single electrons.
Miburo, Barnabe B. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 317.
Learning Theories |
Lewis Structures |
Nonmajor Courses |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Real Reason Why Oil and Water Don't Mix  Todd P. Silverstein
Authors should remove from their textbooks the incorrect enthalpic/hydrogen-bond explanation for the hydrophobic effect. Because aspects of the correct entropic/clathrate "cage" explanation lie beyond the scope of introductory or organic chemistry courses, it may be wisest to omit any detailed physical explanation of the "like dissolves like" phenomenon.
Silverstein, Todd P. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 116.
Theoretical Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Portraying the Structure of Micelles  F. M. Menger, R. Zana, and B. Lindman
The schematic of a micelle is given as an attempt to "disprove" the appearance of the spokes of a wheel.
Menger, F. M.; Zana, R.; Lindman, B. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 115.
Micelles |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
The Source of the Cloud Produced upon Adding Dry Ice to Water  Manu Kohli, Rudy L. Luck, and Veka Ohtamaa
Explains why a cloud is produced by adding dry ice to water.
Kohli, Manu; Luck, Rudy L.; Ohtamaa, Veka. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 60.
Solutions / Solvents |
Water / Water Chemistry
A Simple Demonstration of How Intermolecular Forces Make DNA Helical  Michael F. Bruist
The usage of stacked identical boxes can be used to demonstrate the helical shape of DNA by the effect of intermolecular forces.
Bruist, Michael F. J. Chem. Educ. 1998, 75, 53.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Molecular Modeling
Acid Rain Demonstration: The Formation of Nitrogen Oxides as a By-Product of High-Temperature Flames in Connection with Internal Combustion Engines  Jerry A. Driscoll
This demonstration illustrates the formation of nitrogen oxides resulting from a high temperature flame.
Driscoll, Jerry A. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1424.
Equilibrium |
Learning Theories |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Oxidation / Reduction
Complexometric Titrations: Competition of Complexing Agents in the Determination of Water Hardness with EDTA  M. Cecilia Yappert and Donald B. DuPre
The competition of complexing agents for the same metal ion and the formation of colored metal-ion complexes is demonstrated with the use of an overhead projector. This demonstration can be used to emphasize both the relevance of the relative values of formation constants in the complexation of metal cations and the applicability of complexometric titrations in quantitative chemical analysis.
Yappert, M. Cecilia; DuPre, Donald B. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1422.
Equilibrium |
Coordination Compounds |
Qualitative Analysis |
Quantitative Analysis |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Metals
A Discussion of Water Pollution in the United States and Mexico; with High School Laboratory Activities for the Analysis of Lead, Atrazine, and Nitrate  Paul B. Kelter, Julie Grundman, David S. Hage, James D. Carr, and Carlos Mauricio Castro-Acuña
In the first part of this paper we present an overview of water pollution in the United States and Mexico, including sources, federal regulations and standards, and standard methods for the assessment of overall water quality. The second part of the paper focuses on three water pollutants, lead, atrazine, and nitrate.
Kelter, Paul B.; Grundman, Julie; Hage, David S.; Carr, James D.; Mauricio, Carlos. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1413.
Water / Water Chemistry
Integrating High School Chemistry with Environmental Studies and Research  Jack Randall
This article is a summary of a presentation made at the 1996 BCCE in Clemson, SC, as part of a symposium detailing the integration of environmental topics into Chemistry curricula. High school chemistry has long used environmental topics to enhance the study of various components of the curriculum. This article illustrates the benefits of incorporating environmental science as an integral part of a high school Chemistry course.
Randall, Jack. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1409.
Learning Theories |
Nonmajor Courses |
Water / Water Chemistry
News from Online  Carolyn Sweeney Judd
WWW sites related to water and related environmental issues.
Judd, Carolyn Sweeney. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1394.
Water / Water Chemistry
Solid State Structures (Abstract of Volume 5D, Number 2)  Ludwig A. Mayer
Solid State Structures is a collection of image files that allows the user to display, rotate, and examine individually a large collection of 3-D structure models.
Mayer, Ludwig A. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1144.
Solid State Chemistry |
Metals |
Solids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A Window on the Solid State: Part I: Structures of Metals; Part II: Unit Cells of Metals; Part III: Structures of Ionic Solids; Part IV: Unit Cells of Ionic Solids (Abstract of Volume 5D, Number 2)  William R. Robinson and Joan F. Tejchma
A Window on the Solid State helps students understand and instructors present the structural features of solids. The package provides a tour of the structures commonly used to introduce features of the solid state.
Robinson, William R.; Tejchma, Joan F. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1143.
Solid State Chemistry |
Metals |
Solids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Fostering Curiosity-Driven Learning through Interactive Multimedia Representations of Biological Molecules  Abby L. Parrill and Jacquelyn Gervay
A series of QuickTime movies have been developed and are available over the World Wide Web (WWW) to help evoke student curiosity about organic chemistry. When viewed in series the movies start with a 'big picture' view based on crystallographic data and narrow in on the basic concepts needed to understand that scientific observation.
Parrill, Abby L.; Gervay, Jacquelyn. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1141.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Two Comments on Bond Angles  P. Glaister
The alternative approach of using the scalar (or dot) product of vectors enables the determination of the bond angle in a tetrahedral molecule in a simple way. There is, of course, an even more straightforward derivation suitable for students who are unfamiliar with vectors, or products thereof, but who do know some elementary trigonometry.
Glaister, P. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 1086.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chemical Behavior  Paul G. Jasien
In order to increase student understanding of the seemingly confusing behavior of chemical substances involved in environmental chemistry, an analogy between chemical and human behavior is presented. The analogy focuses on how the same individual can behave differently due to his/her social surroundings.
Jasien, Paul G. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 943.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nonmajor Courses |
Consumer Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry
Atomic and Molecular Structure in Chemical Education: A Critical Analysis from Various Perspectives of Science Education  Georgios Tsaparlis
The perspectives employed in this paper are (i) the Piagetian developmental perspective, (ii) the Ausbelian theory of meaningful learning, (iii) the information processing theory, and (iv) the alternative conceptions movement. The implications for teaching and curriculums are discussed.
Tsaparlis, Georgios. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 922.
Learning Theories |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Constructivism
ACD/ChemSketch 1.0 (freeware); ACD/ChemSketch 2.0 and its Tautomers, Dictionary, and 3D Plug-ins; ACD/HNMR 2.0; ACD/CNMR 2.0  reviewed by Allen D. Hunter
Chemistry drawing and NMR prediction packages.
Hunter, Allen D. . J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 905.
NMR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Hot and Spicy versus Cool and Minty as an Example of Organic Structure-Activity Relationships  Doris R. Kimbrough
Structures of substances found in spices and food that we normally associate with "hot" (or spicy) and "cool" (or minty) flavors are presented and discussed. Functional group similarities within the two groups provide an interesting example of the relationship between molecular structure and molecular function.
Kimbrough, Doris R. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 861.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Natural Products |
Plant Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
A General Chemistry Experiment Incorporating Synthesis and Structural Determination  Hal Van Ryswyk
An experiment for the general chemistry laboratory is described wherein gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) are used to characterize the products of a series of microscale reactions on vanillin.
Van Ryswyk, Hal. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 842.
Instrumental Methods |
Microscale Lab |
Synthesis |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Gas Chromatography |
Mass Spectrometry |
Fourier Transform Techniques |
Spectroscopy
An Inexpensive Kit for Constructing Models of Crystals  Michael Laing
This simple kit comprises five trays, each of 25 square wells, and a lid. It can be used to construct primitive cubic, FCC, BCC, diamond, zinc blende, NaCl, CsCl, rutile, fluorite, perovskite structures. The trays are square tissue culture Petri dishes (multiwell plates). Atoms are represented by glass marbles.
Laing, Michael. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 795.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Materials Science |
Solid State Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Use of Pom Pons To Illustrate Cubic Crystal Structures  Susan G. Cady
Transposing the textbook illustrations into three dimensional structures is difficult for some students. This transitions is easier if a three dimensional model is available for examination. Several 3D models are cited. A quick to assemble, inexpensive, colorful, and durable alternative to these models and styrofoam balls is the use of olefin pom pons.
Cady, Susan G. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 794.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Modeling
VSEPR Theory Demo  Janice Parker
This article describes a procedure to demonstrate electron pair repulsion (or molecular arrangement) using cow magnets and simple laboratory equipment.
Parker, Janice. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 776.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
From UNIX to PC via X-Windows: Molecular Modeling for the General Chemistry Lab  Donald Pavia and Mark Wicholas
A 3-hour experiment that attempts to illustrate the relationship between molecular geometry as predicted by the VSEPR model and valence bond theory. As a pre-laboratory take-home exercise, students are given a list of 23 species and asked to predict bond angles, geometry, and hybridization.
Pavia, Donald; Wicholas, Mark. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 444.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Discovery-Based Stereochemistry Tutorials Available on the World Wide Web  Abby L. Parrill and Jacquelyn Gervay
The WWW offers the ability to develop interactive, discovery-based tutorials for use as study tools, and multimedia offers significant improvements in the display of three-dimensional objects. As part of a chemical education research program, three stereochemistry tutorials were developed to capitalize on these advantages.
Parrill, Abby L.; Gervay, Jacquelyn. J. Chem. Educ. 1997, 74, 329.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
An Organoleptic Laboratory Experiment  John M. Risley
Compounds in ten different classes of organic molecules that are used in the fragrance and food industry are provided to students. Students whiff the vapors of each compound and describe the organoleptic properties using a set of terms utilized in the fragrance and food industry. A set of questions guides students to an understanding of the relationship between structure of molecules and smell.
Risley, John M. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 1181.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Consumer Chemistry |
Physical Properties |
Nonmajor Courses |
Alcohols |
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Amines / Ammonium Compounds |
Carboxylic Acids |
Esters |
Ethers |
Phenols
Four Programs for Windows: Abstract of Volume 4D, Number 2: Alkanes in Motion  Jae Hyun Kim
Alkanes in Motion depicts the molecular motion of hydrocarbons in the gas phase. Four animations from the collection are presented here. These four animations consist of two animations each of hexane and octadecane, one animation calculated to show translational motion and one to show vibrational motion.
Kim, Jae Hyun. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 1079.
Molecular Modeling |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Gases
How to Offer the Optimal Demonstration of the Electrolysis of Water  Rei E. Zhou
This article proposes the optimal conditions for lecture demonstration to ensure that the generated H2 and O2 in the electrolysis of water are in the ratio of 2:1, satisfying the reaction scheme.
Zhou, Rei E. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 786.
Water / Water Chemistry
An Easily Constructed and Versatile Molecular Model  Sandra A. Hernandez, Nora M. Rodriguez, and Oscar Quinzani
This article discusses inexpensive, easily carried, and semipermanent molecular models that the students may build by themselves.
Hernandez, Sandra A.; Rodriguez, Nora M.; Quinzani, Oscar V. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 748.
Molecular Modeling |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Constant-Current Coulometric Titration of Hydrochloric Acid  James Swim, Edward Earps, Laura M. Reed, and David Paul
In this experiment we have combined the titration of a strong acid with a strong base and the electrolysis of water into one complete laboratory experience.
James Swim, Edward Earps, Laura M. Reed, and David Paul. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 679.
Titration / Volumetric Analysis |
Acids / Bases |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Electrochemistry |
Oxidation / Reduction
Teaching VSEPR: The Plastic Egg Model  James P. Birk and Soraya Abbassian
We describe the construction and use of a set of models based on plastic eggs, which afford advantages over the previously described models.
James P. Birk and Soraya Abbassian. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 636.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Bonding and Molecular Geometry without Orbitals- The Electron Domain Model  Ronald J. Gillespie, James N. Spencer, and Richard S. Moog
An alternative to the conventional valence bond approach to bonding and geometry-the electron domain model-is presented. This approach avoids some of the problems with the standard approach and presents fewer difficulties for the student, while still providing a physical basis for the VSEPR model and a link to the valence bond model.
Ronald J. Gillespie, James N. Spencer, and Richard S. Moog. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 622.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
The Helium-Neon Laser-Induced Fluorescence Spectrum of Molecular Iodine: An Undergraduate Laboratory Experiment  John S. Muenter
The wavelength analyzed fluorescence spectrum provides accurate values of spectroscopic properties for the ground state electronic configuration of I2. From these spectroscopic properties students calculate the bond length, harmonic oscillator force constant, and a Birge-Sponer estimate of the bond dissociation energy.
Muenter, John S. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 576.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Lasers
Determination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in River and Bay Sediments: An Undergraduate Laboratory Experiment in Environmental Chemistry Using Capillary Gas Chromatography with Electron Capture Detection  Susan E. Kegley, Kristen J. Hansen, and Kevin L. Cunningham
This paper briefly discusses the history of PCB use and provides guidelines for finding and evaluating PCB-contaminated sites as a way to interest students by showing them an application of chemistry to the "real world."
Kegley, Susan E.; Hansen, Kristen J.; Cunningham, Kevin L. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 558.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Gas Chromatography |
Applications of Chemistry |
Separation Science |
Solutions / Solvents
Tape and Tetrahedra  John W. Hill
I have found a simple solution to the problem of visualizing the tetrahedron. I use masking tape or labeling tape to connect the hydrogen atoms to one another. The tape represents the edges of the tetrahedron; the four hydrogen atoms are the corners.
Hill, John W. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 531.
Molecular Modeling |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Why Don't Water and Oil Mix?  Katia Pravia and David F. Maynard
To develop an understanding of the molecular interactions of polar and nonpolar molecules, we have developed two simple and extremely useful overhead projection demonstrations that help students conceptualize the solubility rules.
Katia Pravia and David F. Maynard. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 497.
Hydrogen Bonding |
Covalent Bonding |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Molecular Properties / Structure
An Excel 4.0 Add-in Function to Calculate Molecular Mass  Christian Hauck
185. In this paper, a Microsoft Excel 4.0 add-in function is presented, which consists of a parser to interpret molecular formulas and a database containing three values for the atomic masses for every element: the mass number of the most abundant isotope, the mass of the most abundant isotope, and the atomic weight.
Hauck, Christian. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 433.
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Bobbing (Drinking) Bird  H. D. Gesser
This article answers the question of when the bobbing bird will stop bobbing. It offers two scenarios in which the bird will discontinue its bobbing motion.
Gesser, H. D. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 355.
Water / Water Chemistry
MOLSYM: A Program on Molecular Symmetry and Group Theory  Vazquez-Vidal, Luis
184. Program MOLSYM provides teachers, students, and researchers with tools for dealing with diverse aspects of molecular symmetry and applying them to specific examples and problems.
Vazquez-Vidal, Luis J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 321.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Group Theory / Symmetry
Chemistry on the Web  Richard D. Mounts
181. Information on obtaining, installing, and using Web browsers and Web viewers is included. Chemical MIME objects, which are 3-dimensional representations of molecular structures, are used as examples of a type of resource available on the Web that is of special interest to chemists.
Mounts, Richard D. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 68.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Difficulties with the Geometry and Polarity of Molecules: Beyond Misconceptions  Carlos Furió and Ma Luisa Calatayud
In chemistry, research on student understanding and misconceptions has been conducted in several conceptual areas. Recent studies have been carried out on misconceptions of covalent bonding and structure of molecules.
Furio, Carlos; Calatayud, Ma Luisa. J. Chem. Educ. 1996, 73, 36.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Constructivism
Low Cost 3-D Viewing of Chemical Structures  Wong, Yue-Ling; Yip, Ching-Wan
Generating 3-D stereoscopic projections using a anaglyphic (red-blue) pair processed with Adobe PhotoShop.
Wong, Yue-Ling; Yip, Ching-Wan J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, A237.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Visual Basic and Dynamic Data Exchange: Controlling Windows Applications  Porter, Timothy L.; Maxka, Jim; Abes, John
Description of general methods of controlling HyperChem through Visual Basic and dynamic data exchange (DDE).
Timothy L. Porter; Jim Maxka and John Abes. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, A236.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chemistry, The Molecular Science (Olmsted, John, III; Williams, George M.)  Eichstadt, Karen E.
Molecular approach to general chemistry.
Eichstadt, Karen E. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, A107.
Descriptive Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A Simple, Discovery-Based Laboratory Exercise: The Molecular Mass Determination of Polystyrene  Greg A. Slough
Identification of an unknown polymer using silica gel TLC sheets and IR spectroscopy.
Slough, Greg A. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 1031.
Stoichiometry |
IR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Thin Layer Chromatography
Crystallization of Supersaturated Sodium Acetate and the Temperature Dependence of the Autoionization Constant of Water  Joseph A. Pergler, Ronald O. Ragsdale, and Thomas G. Richmond
A procedure to qualitatively demonstrate the variation of the autoionization constant of water with temperature.
Pergler, Joseph A.; Ragsdale, Ronald O.; Richmond, Thomas G. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 1027.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents |
Acids / Bases |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Water / Water Chemistry
A New Low-Cost Apparatus for Electrolysis of Water   Chieko Suzuki
Low-cost alternative to the Hofmann apparatus for the electrolysis of water.
Suzuki, Chieko. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 912.
Electrochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus
Lewis Structures of Oxygen Compounds of 3p-5p Nonmetals  Darel K. Straub
Procedure for writing Lewis structures of oxygen compounds of 3p-5p nonmetals.
Straub, Darel K. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 889.
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Main-Group Elements
Paper Models for Fullerenes C60-C84   John M. Beaton
Photocopyable patterns to construct C60-C84.
J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 863.
Main-Group Elements |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkenes
Animation of Imaginary Frequencies at the Transition State  Robert H. Higgins
176. Software tutorial for strengthening spatial skills and an understanding of stereochemistry in exploring molecular structures.
Higgins, Robert H. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 699.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Modeling
An Introductory Infrared Spectroscopy Experiment   Kenneth R. Hess, Wendy D. Smith, Marcus W. Thomsen, and Claude H. Yoder
An activity designed to introduce IR spectroscopy as a structure-determining technique to introductory chemistry students.
Hess, Kenneth R.; Smith, Wendy D.; Thomsen, Marcus W.; Yoder, Claude H. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 655.
IR Spectroscopy |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Chemical Bond Studied by IR Spectroscopy in Introductory Chemistry: An Exercise in Cooperative Learning  Janet S. Anderson, David M. Hayes, and T. C. Werner
Activity that enables introductory chemistry students to run their own IR spectra using a FTIR spectrophotometer as part of learning about the dynamical nature of the chemical bond.
Anderson, Janet S.; Hayes, David M.; Werner, T. C. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 653.
IR Spectroscopy |
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Common Textbook and Teaching Misrepresentations of Lewis Structures   Laila Suidan, Jay K. Badenhoop, Eric D. Glendening, and Frank Weinhold
Clarifying leading Lewis structures using computational software.
Suidan, Laila; Badenhoop, Jay K.; Glendening, Eric D.; Weinhold, Frank. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 583.
Lewis Structures |
Covalent Bonding |
Quantum Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
An Environmental Chemistry Curriculum Using Case Studies  Cheng, Vincent K. W.
Using case studies to make environmental chemistry more interesting and relevant for students.
Cheng, Vincent K. W. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 525.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Industrial Chemistry
MolVib 2.0  Huber, Daniel; Wagner, Paul
Software to illustrate molecular vibrations.
Huber, Daniel; Wagner, Paul J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 492.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Lake Study for Macintosh  Whisnant, David M.; McCormick, James; Wagner, Paul
Software to simulate determination of the cause of fishkill in a lake.
Whisnant, David M.; McCormick, James; Wagner, Paul J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 492.
Water / Water Chemistry
Proper Waste Disposal Procedures (the author replies)  Sherman, Marie C.
Response to objections regarding improper waste disposal.
Sherman, Marie C. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 286.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Management
Proper Waste Disposal Procedures  Clarke, Karl
Objection to improper recommendation for waste disposal.
Clarke, Karl J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 286.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Management
Cubic and Related Structures of Many Types of Crystals: A Single Illuminated Model  Rich, Ronald L.
Instructions for constructing a three-dimensional, lighted model to illustrate the positions of atoms in many different crystalline structures.
Rich, Ronald L. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 172.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Geochemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Put the Body to Them!  Perkins, Robert R.
Examples of chemistry demonstrations involving student participation, including quantized states and systems, boiling point trends, intermolecular vs. intramolecular changes, polar/nonpolar molecules, enantiomers and diastereomers, and chromatography.
Perkins, Robert R. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 151.
Chromatography |
Physical Properties |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Quantum Chemistry |
Diastereomers |
Enantiomers
An Environmental Distillation Experiment for Nonscience Majors  Soriano, David S.; Draeger, Jon A.
Comparison of total dissolved solids for several samples of water before and after a single, simple distillation.
Soriano, David S.; Draeger, Jon A. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 84.
Separation Science |
Water / Water Chemistry
Checking Trace Nitrate in Water and Soil Using an Amateur Scientist's Measurement Guide  Baker, Roger C., Jr.
Procedures and apparatus (photometer) for measuring concentrations of nitrates in water and soil using common equipment and materials; includes data and analysis.
Baker, Roger C., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 57.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Agricultural Chemistry
Tetrahedral Geometry Made Simple  Woolf, A. A.
Technique for evaluating the geometry of tetrahedral close packing using right-angled triangles and trigonometry.
Woolf, A. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1995, 72, 19.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography
A Student's Travels, Close Dancing, Bathtubs, and the Shopping Mall: More Analogies in Teaching Introductory Chemistry   Rayner-Canham, Geoff
Four analogies are described for use in introductory chemistry classes.
Rayner-Canham, Geoff J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 943.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Equilibrium
Chemistry Navigator  Kotz, John C.; Young, Susan
Chemistry Navigator is a hyperbook-database of information in the form of descriptive text, numerical values of properties, full color photos of chemicals and reactions, three dimensional molecular structures, QuickTime animations of structural features, and graphs showing periodic trends, relative elemental abundances, and other properties.
Kotz, John C.; Young, Susan J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 941.
Reactions |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table
Soda Water, Supercooling or Freezing Point Depression?  Brooker, Murray H.
Composition, preparation, properties, and behavior of soda water.
Brooker, Murray H. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 903.
Gases |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Solutions / Solvents |
Consumer Chemistry
Molecular Modeling for the Introductory Organic Chemistry Courses  Keeffe, James R.
Award in the Course and Curriculum Development (CCD) program for FY1994.
Keeffe, James R. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 508.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Organic Nomenclature  Shaw, David B.
Drill-and-practice exercise in naming organic compounds and identifying structural formulas.
Shaw, David B. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 421.
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Solid State Structures for MacMolecule  Mayer, Ludwig A.
Provides an effective visualization of extended structure solids.
Mayer, Ludwig A. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 421.
Solid State Chemistry |
Solids |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Testing the Waters for Chromium  Herrmann, Mary S.
A test for the presence of Cr(IV) in water using a sensitive colorimetric reagent.
Herrmann, Mary S. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 323.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Metals |
Quantitative Analysis
On Using Incomplete Theories as Cataloging Schemes: Aufbau, Abbau, and VSEPR  Tykodi, R. J.
How to restructure as cataloging schemes the aufbau and abbau procedures for obtaining the ground-state electronic structures of atoms and monatomic ions.
Tykodi, R. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 273.
VSEPR Theory |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Data-Driven Chemistry: Building Models of Molecular Structure (Literally) from Electron Diffraction Data  Hanson, Robert M.; Bergman, Sara A.
How electron diffraction data can be presented as evidence for molecular structure to first-year students.
Hanson, Robert M.; Bergman, Sara A. J. Chem. Educ. 1994, 71, 150.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A small-scale, easy-to-run wastewater-treatment plant: The treatment of an industrial water that contains suspended clays and soluble salts   Alvaro, Mercedes; Espla, Mercedes; Llinares, Jesus; Martinez-Manez, Ramon; Soto, Juan
Chemistry students are often interested in the chemical principles involved in industrial processes, the pollutants and waste products are generated, and their removal. This experiment introduces students to several theoretical concepts as they apply to real physical and chemical waste-treatment processes.
Alvaro, Mercedes; Espla, Mercedes; Llinares, Jesus; Martinez-Manez, Ramon; Soto, Juan J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, A129.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Green Chemistry |
Industrial Chemistry |
Colloids |
Separation Science
A two-dimensional model for water  Yalkowsky, Samuel H.
The tetrahedral arrangement of the two hydrogen atoms and two electron pairs of the water molecule are difficult to represent diagrammatically in two dimensions, resulting in great difficulty to explain the anomalous properties of water. Nonetheless, the author illustrates the great insights that can be gained from two-dimensional analogies.
Yalkowsky, Samuel H. J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 614.
Water / Water Chemistry
Why is water blue?  Braun, Charles L.; Smirnov, Sergei N.
Exploring the problem of why water in a beaker appears to be clear, yet we see large bodies of water as blue in color.
Braun, Charles L.; Smirnov, Sergei N. J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 612.
Atomic Spectroscopy |
Water / Water Chemistry
A water treatment experiment (chemical hardness) for nonscience majors  Soriano, David S.; Draeger, Jon A.
Description of an activity used in a nonmajors course called 'Chemistry and Society'.
Soriano, David S.; Draeger, Jon A. J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 414.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Nonmajor Courses |
Instrumental Methods
Introducing the treatment of waste and wastewater in the general chemistry course: Applying physical and chemical principles to the problems of waste management  Dhawale, S. W.
Students learn simple lab techniques so that they can discuss applications such as cleanup of small-scale oil spills and the processes used to obtain drinkable pure water.
Dhawale, S. W. J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 395.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Green Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Polarity, miscibility, and surface tension of liquids   Silverstein, Todd P.
A very simple overhead projector demonstration using water and ethanol to give a dramatic visual illustration of cohesive and adhesive forces.
Silverstein, Todd P. J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 253.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Lowering the surface tension of water: An illustration of the scientific method   Jasien, Paul G.; Barnett, Glenn
This demonstration has been effective in simulating a good discussion in class: floating non-wettable substances on the surface of water and touching the surface with a bar of soap.
Jasien, Paul G.; Barnett, Glenn J. Chem. Educ. 1993, 70, 251.
Water / Water Chemistry
Microscale experiments: Dissolved oxygen and chloride determination in water  Crosson, Mary; Gibb, Reen
Determining the dissolved oxygen and chloride content of water samples through titrations.
Crosson, Mary; Gibb, Reen J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 830.
Microscale Lab |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis
Drawing Lewis structures: A step-by-step approach  Ahmad, Wan-Yaacob; Omar, Siraj
A simple step-by-step approach for deriving Lewis structures for students studying introductory chemistry.
Ahmad, Wan-Yaacob; Omar, Siraj J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 791.
Lewis Structures |
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Capillary radius and surface tensions: Using calculations based on Tate's law.  Worley, John D.
An experiment that can be carried out without the use of a tensiometer or any other complex or expensive apparatus except for a balance.
Worley, John D. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 678.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Surface Science
The thermodynamics of home-made ice cream.  Gibbon, Donald L.; Kennedy, Keith; Reading, Nathan; Quieroz, Mardsen.
Using the production of ice cream to teach heat capacity, viscosity, and freezing-point reduction.
Gibbon, Donald L.; Kennedy, Keith; Reading, Nathan; Quieroz, Mardsen. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 658.
Thermodynamics |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
BCTC for Windows.  Whisnant, David M.; McCormick, James.
BCTC is an environmental simulation that is modeled after the dioxin controversy; students are involved in the investigation of a suspected carcinogen called BCTC found in a river and threatening a city's water supply.
Whisnant, David M.; McCormick, James. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 638.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Toxicology
A paper-pattern system for the construction of fullerene molecular models  Beaton, John M.
Paper cut-out models of C60, C70, C80, and C76 with Td and D2 symmetry.
Beaton, John M. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 610.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Alkenes |
Group Theory / Symmetry
Simple soda bottle solubility and equilibria  Snyder, Cheryl A.; Snyder, Dudley C.
Using a bottle of selzter water and bromocresol green to demonstrate gas-liquid solubility (carbon dioxide in water).
Snyder, Cheryl A.; Snyder, Dudley C. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 573.
Solutions / Solvents |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Equilibrium |
Gases |
Liquids |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
A method for building simple physical models: Representing the structures of nucleic acids  Benedetti, Giorgio; Morosetti, Stefano.
A low-resolution model made from inexpensive and common materials that retains the essentials structural features of a three-dimensional high-resolution structure.
Benedetti, Giorgio; Morosetti, Stefano. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 569.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
The nature of the chemical bond - 1992  Pauling, Linus
Commentary on errors in an earlier article on the nature of the chemical bond.
Pauling, Linus J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 519.
Covalent Bonding |
Quantum Chemistry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Representing isomeric structures: Five applications.  Thall, Edwin.
Five applications of a new method that the author calls Representing Isomeric Structures, in which arrows are used to point to unique sites on the carbon skeleton to represent functional groups.
Thall, Edwin. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 447.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers
A reasonable alternative to water aspiration  Mulcahy, Francis M.; Robbins, Andrea M.
The authors have designed a manifold system to obtain the greatest possible use of their vacuum pumps.
Mulcahy, Francis M.; Robbins, Andrea M. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 428.
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Laboratory Management |
Water / Water Chemistry
Illustration of Mn and Mw in chain-growth polymerization using a simplified model: An undergraduate polymer chemistry laboratory exercise  Snyder, Donald M.
This exercise helps to attain three pedagogical objectives. Laying out the chains illustrates that a polymer is composed of a mixture of various chain lengths, the random-number assembly of the chain illustrates the statistical aspects of chain growth, the limited number of chains and chain length of the chain allows direct calculation of the number of chains and the weight averages of the chains.
Snyder, Donald M. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 422.
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Boiling and freezing simultaneously - with a feeble vacuum pump!   Ellison, Mike
The author uses this demonstration of freezing and boiling at reduced pressure to reinforce concepts about energy effects in phase changes.
Ellison, Mike J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 325.
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Thermodynamics
Standard states for water equilibrium (author response).  Campbell, Mark L.; Waite, Boyd A.
For the purposes of comparison only the unconventionally derived Ka values should be used to compare equilibrium constants for other acids to determine relative acid strengths.
Campbell, Mark L.; Waite, Boyd A. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 256.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Standard states for water equilibrium.  Baldwin, W. George; Burchill, C. Eugene.
The authors consider that Ka and Kb values for Bronsted acids and bases in aqueous solution represent one data set describing the properties of solutes in dilute aqueous solution.
Baldwin, W. George; Burchill, C. Eugene. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 255.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Molecular anthropomorphism: A creative writing exercise  Miller, Larry L.

Miller, Larry L. J. Chem. Educ. 1992, 69, 141.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Freezing point depression in a bottle of soda   Bare, William D.
The "ravenous consumption of soda" by today's students makes an interesting model with which to demonstrate the effect of solute concentration on the freezing point of an aqueous solution.
Bare, William D. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 1038.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Water / Water Chemistry
Chemical equilibrium: VIII. Precipitates   Gordus, Adon A.
The final article in a series (see previous months this year): This article focuses on ionic precipitates in water and how buffered solutions allow easier calculation of solubilities.
Gordus, Adon A. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 927.
Acids / Bases |
Equilibrium |
pH |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Explaining resonance - a colorful approach  Abel, Kenton B.; Hemmerlin, William M.
An analogy using color to help students understand that a resonance molecule does not shift back and forth between Lewis Structures, but is in fact a hybrid of the two structures.
Abel, Kenton B.; Hemmerlin, William M. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 834.
Resonance Theory |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Demonstrations of interfacial phenomena   Prall, Bruce R.
Overhead projector demonstrations that illustrate the interfacial interactions of the following systems: 1) water and carbon tetrachloride, 2) copper wire and water, 3) 1-Octanol and water.
Prall, Bruce R. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 592.
Surface Science |
Liquids |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Magnetic models of ions and water molecules for overhead projection   Davies, William G.
This paper describes a set of lecture-demonstration models that are easily made from ceramic magnets like those found in many discount stores and hobby shops.
Davies, William G. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 245.
Water / Water Chemistry
The optical transform: Simulating diffraction experiments in introductory courses  Lisensky, George C.; Kelly, Thomas F.; Neu, Donald R.; Ellis, Arthur B.
Using optical transforms to prepare slides with patterns that will diffract red and green visible light from a laser.
Lisensky, George C.; Kelly, Thomas F.; Neu, Donald R.; Ellis, Arthur B. J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 91.
X-ray Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Solids |
Lasers |
Materials Science
MolVib: Visualizing molecular vibrations  Huber, Daniel
A software program that features animations that aid in visualizing molecular vibrations. This program can be used appropriately in several levels of chemistry.
Huber, Daniel J. Chem. Educ. 1991, 68, 39.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Desktop Molecular Modeller (Appleyard, John; Crabbe, James C.)  Smith, Douglas A.
Desktop Molecular Modeller is a molecular modeling, editing, and display package.
Smith, Douglas A. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, A164.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
ATOMS - Atomic Structure Display (Dowty, Eric)  Jacobson, Robert A.
The intent of this program is to provide a ready means of displaying structures of molecules, polymers and/or crystals.
Jacobson, Robert A. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, A163.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography
An easily constructed model of twin trigonal pyramids penetrating each other  Yamana, Shukichi
A model of twin trigonal pyramids penetrating each other made from two sealed envelopes.
Yamana, Shukichi J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 1029.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
Molecular weight determination by boiling-point elevation of a urea solution  Thomas, Nicholas C.; Saisuwan, Patsy
Avoids the problems associated with determining the molecular weight of an unknown by measuring the freezing-point depression of the unknown in naphthalene solution.
Thomas, Nicholas C.; Saisuwan, Patsy J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 971.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Bromothymol surprise  Maier, Linda L.
Dropping a tablet of Alka Seltzer into a bromothymol blue solution.
Maier, Linda L. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 963.
Acids / Bases |
Dyes / Pigments |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
A model for valence shell electron-pair repulsion theory  Prall, Bruce R.
Using magnets as models to demonstrate VSEPR theory.
Prall, Bruce R. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 961.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular shape prediction and the lone-pair electrons on the central atom  Al-Mousawi, Saleh M.
Procedures for predicting the shapes of simple molecules and ions using the total number of valence electrons they contain.
Al-Mousawi, Saleh M. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 861.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Ice under pressure  Chang, Raymond; Skinner, James F.
A piece of steel music wire pulled through a block of ice by weights on either side.
Chang, Raymond; Skinner, James F. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 789.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Physical Properties
Molecular models constructed in an easy way: Part 2. Models constructed by using tetrahedral units as building blocks  He, Fu-cheng; Liu, Lu-bin; Li, Xiang-yuan
How a group of molecular models can be constructed from tetrahedral units made from paper ribbon.
He, Fu-cheng; Liu, Lu-bin; Li, Xiang-yuan J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 650.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Cotton swabs help to visualize structures  Ali, Saqib; Mazhar, M.
Using cotton swabs help to visualize atomic and molecular structures.
Ali, Saqib; Mazhar, M. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 558.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular models constructed in an easy way: Part 1. Models of tetrahedron, trigonal bipyramid, octahedron, pentagonal bipyramid, and capped octahedron  He, Fu-cheng; Liu, Lu-bin; Li, Xiang-yuan
An improved technique for making various molecular models using polyhedral units constructed from a strip of paper.
He, Fu-cheng; Liu, Lu-bin; Li, Xiang-yuan J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 556.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular diffusion coefficients: Experimental determination and demonstration.  Fate, Gwendolyn; Lynn, David G.
This demonstration highlights the dependence of molecular transport on molar mass and temperature.
Fate, Gwendolyn; Lynn, David G. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 536.
Transport Properties |
UV-Vis Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Magic sand: Modeling the hydrophobic effect and reversed-phase liquid chromatography  Vitz, Ed
The procedures described here are meant to reveal the important "nonsolvent" properties of water through its interaction with Magic Sand, and other synthetic silica derivatives.
Vitz, Ed J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 512.
Chromatography |
Water / Water Chemistry
An inexpensive device for collection of samples of water for dissolved oxygen determination without air contact   Favaretto, Lelio
This communication describes a simple and inexpensive device that permits the collection of water samples and fixation of dissolved oxygen by the Winkler method.
Favaretto, Lelio J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 509.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus
Lewis structure skills: Taxonomy and difficulty levels  Brady, Joseph A.; Milbury-Steen, John N.; Burmeister, John L.
The Office of Academic Computing and Instructional Technology at the University of Delaware committed itself to developing an intelligent tutoring system for drawing Lewis dot structures. An early prototype collected considerable data about student performance, which revealed the relative difficulty of the required skills.
Brady, Joseph A.; Milbury-Steen, John N.; Burmeister, John L. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 491.
Molecular Properties / Structure
An inexpensive laboratory steam generator  Hagen, James P.; Barton, Kevin L.
The authors have devised an inexpensive, more efficient, safer heat source suitable for laboratories not equipped with house steam.
Hagen, James P.; Barton, Kevin L. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 448.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Laboratory Management
The nature of the chemical bond--1990: There are no such things as orbitals!  Ogilivie, J. F.
The author discusses the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, the laws and theories, and the relationship of quantum-mechanics to atomic and molecular structure, as well as their relevance to chemical education.
Ogilivie, J. F. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 280.
Quantum Chemistry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Dramatizing isotopes: Deuterated ice cubes sink   Ellis, Arthur B.; Adler, Edward A.; Juergens, Frederick H.
The authors describe a safe, striking demonstration of the effect of isotopic substitution.
Ellis, Arthur B.; Adler, Edward A.; Juergens, Frederick H. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 159.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Isotopes
An automatic water trap for steam distillation  Ruekberg, Ben
The unpleasant aspects of the water trap can be avoided with a simple, inexpensive device that renders the water trap automatically selfdraining.
Ruekberg, Ben J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 66.
Separation Science |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus
Demonstrations for nonscience majors: Using common objects to illustrate abstract concepts  Laurita, William
Some concrete examples of common chemical phenomena designed for a class of nonscience majors.
Laurita, William J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 60.
Nonmajor Courses |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Visualization of electron clouds in atoms and molecules  Douglas, John E.
110. Visualization of the electron orbital concept continues to challenge and intrigue chemical educators. [October and November 1989 Computer Series both inadvertently called number 107. Numbering restored by skipping 109 and calling January 1990 number 110.]
Douglas, John E. J. Chem. Educ. 1990, 67, 42.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular models for the do-it-yourselfer  Birk, James P.; Foster, John
Instructions for making molecular models from styrofoam balls and wooden dowels.
Birk, James P.; Foster, John J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 1015.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Identifying polar and nonpolar molecules  Tykodi, R. J.
A scheme based on the ideas of molecular symmetry for determining the polar / nonpolar nature of simple molecules.
Tykodi, R. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 1007.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Viewing stereo drawings  Srinivasan, A. R.; Olson, Wilma K.
Using stereo triptych representations in place of conventional stereo diagrams.
Srinivasan, A. R.; Olson, Wilma K. J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 664.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
An experiment to demonstrate the application of the scientific method  Tannenbaum, Irving R.
Boiling water as a demonstration to lead students to make and interpret careful observations.
Tannenbaum, Irving R. J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 597.
Water / Water Chemistry
Teaching a model for writing Lewis structures  Pardo, Juan Quilez
A general procedure for the representation of Lewis structures.
Pardo, Juan Quilez J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 456.
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A simple qualitative technique for pattern recognition in structure-activity relationships  Roy, Glenn
Acetate Overlay Repeating Topology Assay (AORTA) provides an inexpensive way to introduce high school or college students to the ever expanding library of structure-taste relationships without the need of a computer.
Roy, Glenn J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 435.
Qualitative Analysis |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Aromatic Compounds
Ammonium hydroxide does not exist  Yoke, John
No matter how the s and three p orbitals are hybridized, nitrogen can form a maximum of only four bonds.
Yoke, John J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 310.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Searching Chemical Abstracts Online in undergraduate chemistry: Part 2. Registry (structure) File: molecular formulas, names, and name fragments  Krumpolc, Miroslav; Trimakas, Diana; Miller, Connie
This data base, essentially a subject index, consists of substance names, their Registry Numbers and characteristics, and actual structural representations.
Krumpolc, Miroslav; Trimakas, Diana; Miller, Connie J. Chem. Educ. 1989, 66, 26.
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The interconversion of electrical and chemical energy: The electrolysis of water and the hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell  Roffia, Sergio; Concialini, Vittorio; Paradisi, Carmen
Presentation of a simple apparatus that allows an instructor to perform the electrolysis of water and the back conversion of the products to water while overcoming some typical drawbacks encountered in this process.
Roffia, Sergio; Concialini, Vittorio; Paradisi, Carmen J. Chem. Educ. 1988, 65, 725.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Electrochemistry
Interfacial phenomena   Anwander, Alberto E.; Grant, Richard P. J. S.; Letcher, Trevor M.
The interfaces between liquids, and liquids and gases, have a number of possible permutations that lead to exotic phenomenon such as antibubbles, floating drops, boules, polyaphrons, and hanging air bubbles. The authors give directions for demonstrating these in the classroom or lab.
Anwander, Alberto E.; Grant, Richard P. J. S.; Letcher, Trevor M. J. Chem. Educ. 1988, 65, 608.
Surface Science |
Liquids |
Gases |
Physical Properties |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
How to use crystallographic information in teaching first-year chemistry   Bevan, D. J. M.; Taylor, M. R.; Rossi, M.
These authors describe material appropriate for inclusion in a first-year chemistry lecture course. This article stresses how basic chemical principles have been derived from crystallographic results. A potential instructor need not have crystallographic training to incorporate these lectures.
Bevan, D. J. M.; Taylor, M. R.; Rossi, M. J. Chem. Educ. 1988, 65, 477.
X-ray Crystallography |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A colorful demonstration to simulate orbital hybridization  Emerson, David W.
A simple, colorful demonstration involving nothing more than several beakers of colored water can speed up student comprehension of hybrid orbitals at the introductory level.
Emerson, David W. J. Chem. Educ. 1988, 65, 454.
Covalent Bonding |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Molecular Animator (Howbert, J. Jeffrey)  Smith, Alan G.
Allows molecules to be viewed in three-dimensions.
Smith, Alan G. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, A286.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Correct equilibrium constants for water (the authors reply)  Starkey, Ronald; Norman, Jack; Hinitze, Mark
Water and hydronium ion Ka values are special cases.
Starkey, Ronald; Norman, Jack; Hinitze, Mark J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 1068.
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Acids / Bases |
Thermodynamics
Correct equilibrium constants for water  Baldwin, W. George; Burchill, C. Eugene
Disagreement with the numerical values assigned to equilibrium constants.
Baldwin, W. George; Burchill, C. Eugene J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 1067.
Equilibrium |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
When oil and water do not mix  Trammell, Gary L.
An introduction to the physics and chemistry of interfaces and lipids, and reactions in micelles.
Trammell, Gary L. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 1022.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents |
Micelles |
Lipids
The chemical bond  DeKock, Roger L.
Overview of the chemical bond; considers ionic bonds, covalent bonds, Lewis electron dot structures, polar molecules and hydrogen bonds, and bonding in solid-state elements.
DeKock, Roger L. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 934.
Ionic Bonding |
Covalent Bonding |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Solid State Chemistry |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Werner and Jorgensen: Presenting history with a computer  Whisnant, David M.
85. A computer simulation designed to illustrate the process of science - how theories develop, how change occurs, and how scientists behave.
Whisnant, David M. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 688.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Coordination Compounds
An aqueous problem with an interesting solution  Thomas, Nicholas C.
Flow diagram outlining the steps to calculating the number of water molecules in one drop of water and the length of all these molecules stretched end to end.
Thomas, Nicholas C. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 611.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Stoichiometry
Allotropes and polymorphs  Sharma, B. D.
Definitions and examples of allotropes and polymorphs.
Sharma, B. D. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 404.
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Lewis structures for compounds with expanded octets  Malerich, Charles J.
A simple method for recognizing expanded octets given only the molecular formula of the compound.
Malerich, Charles J. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 403.
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Which will evaporate first?  Stenmark, Allan
The evaporation rate of various short-chain alcohols and diethyl ether are compared.
Stenmark, Allan J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 351.
Physical Properties |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alcohols |
Ethers
Methane pistol  Skinner, James F.
This simple demonstration leaves a lasting impression of the importance of intermolecular forces and hydrogen bonding.
Skinner, James F. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 171.
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
ChemPlate and Hopkins, a template and font for drawing molecular structures with the Macintosh computer  Hwu, Jih Ru.; Wetzel, John M.; Robl, Jeffrey A.
80. Features, use, and results of ChemPlate and Hopkins, software for drawing molecular structures with a Macintosh computer.
Hwu, Jih Ru.; Wetzel, John M.; Robl, Jeffrey A. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 135.
Molecular Properties / Structure
No rabbit ears on water. The structure of the water molecule: What should we tell the students?  Laing, Michael
Analysis of the bonding found in water and how it results in the observed geometry of the water molecule.
Laing, Michael J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 124.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory |
Covalent Bonding
Classroom demonstrations of polymer principles. Part I. Molecular structure and molecular mass  Rodriguez, F.; Mathias, L. J.; Kroschwitz, J.; Carraher, C. E., Jr.
Suggestions for models and techniques to illustrate the structure of polymers, copolymers, molecular mass, osmotic pressure, light scattering, and dilute solution viscosity.
Rodriguez, F.; Mathias, L. J.; Kroschwitz, J.; Carraher, C. E., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 72.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
Stretched elastomers: A case of decreasing length upon heating  Clough, S. B.
Demonstrating and explaining the decrease in length of a heated rubber band.
Clough, S. B. J. Chem. Educ. 1987, 64, 42.
Thermodynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The quicker picker upper experiment   Snow, Albert J.
A popular commercial slogan as an in for chemistry instructors to talk about capillary action.
Snow, Albert J. J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 1086.
Applications of Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
A BASIC program for the calculation of elemental compositions from structural formulas  Smith, Roger A.; Spencer, Robin W.
78. Bits and pieces, 32. The authors have written a computer program in BASIC that will calculate the molecular weights and elemental compositions from a structural formula.
Smith, Roger A.; Spencer, Robin W. J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 1076.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
FACES (features associated with chemical entities): II. Hydrocarbon isomers and their graphs  Larsen, Russell D.
The FACES program is modified in order to be able to display the structural features of compounds.
Larsen, Russell D. J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 1067.
Molecular Properties / Structure
The electrolysis of water: An improved demonstration procedure   Heideman, Stephen
The usual use of sulfuric acid as the electrolyte in the demonstration of the electrolysis of water does not allow students to observe the accompanying pH changes at the electrodes.
Heideman, Stephen J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 809.
Water / Water Chemistry |
pH |
Electrochemistry
Teaching the concept of resonance with transparent overlays  Richardson, W. S.
The overlap method can be useful in the development of the concept of a partial charge on the atoms of an ion.
Richardson, W. S. J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 518.
Resonance Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Coulombic models in chemical bonding. II. Dipole moments of binary hydrides  Sacks, Lawrence J.
A discussion of Coulumbic models and their aid in understanding chemical bonding.
Sacks, Lawrence J. J. Chem. Educ. 1986, 63, 373.
Electrochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Noncovalent Interactions
Molecular size and Raoult's Law  Kovac, Jeffrey
An additional cause for deviations from Raoult's Law that is rarely, if ever, mentioned in freshman chemistry texts.
Kovac, Jeffrey J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 1090.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Solutions / Solvents |
Gases
The catalytic function of enzymes  Splittgerber, Allan G.
Review of the structure, function, and factors that influence the action of enzymes.
Splittgerber, Allan G. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 1008.
Catalysis |
Enzymes |
Mechanisms of Reactions |
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Pandemonium pesticide: A simple demonstration illustrating some fundamental chemical concepts  Kauffman, George B.; Chooljian, Steven H.; Ebner, Ronald D.
Demonstration that uses large, visible particles to simulate calculations of atomic / molecular mass, percentage composition, and molecular formula.
Kauffman, George B.; Chooljian, Steven H.; Ebner, Ronald D. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 870.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry |
Chemometrics
Determination of molecular dimensions using monolayers: Another approach  McNaught, Ian J.; Peckham, Gavin D.
A preliminary activity to help students understand the concept and calculations of the determination of molecular dimensions using monolayers.
McNaught, Ian J.; Peckham, Gavin D. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 795.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chemometrics
The water softener - A relevant, unifying example of many common chemical principles and calculations  Fulkrod, John E.
Determining the amount of sodium chloride needed for a water softener to replace all the hard water ions in a month's water supply for a typical household.
Fulkrod, John E. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 529.
Applications of Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Measuring the atomic or molecular mass of a gas with a tire gauge and a butane lighter fluid can  Bodner, George M.; Magginnis, Lenard J.
Also demonstrating the mass of air and the dependence of the pressure of a gas on the mass of the sample.
Bodner, George M.; Magginnis, Lenard J. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 434.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Gases
Molecular geometry  Desseyn, H. O.; Herman, M. A.; Mullens, J.
We should teach our students that many factors influence molecular geometry and that the relative importance of these factors is complicated; considers the VSEPR, Mulliken-Walsh, and electrostatic force theories.
Desseyn, H. O.; Herman, M. A.; Mullens, J. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 220.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Water electrolysis-A surprising experiment  Kelsh, Dennis J.
Using aluminum wire for the cathode will produce "too much" hydrogen.
Kelsh, Dennis J. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 154.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Electrochemistry
Gram formula weights and fruit salad  Felty, Wayne L.
Effective analogy and explanation of gram formula weights.
Felty, Wayne L. J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 61.
Stoichiometry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A LAP on moles: Teaching an important concept  Ihde, John
The objective of the Learning Activity Packet on moles include understanding the basic concept of the mole as a chemical unit, knowing the relationships between the mole and the atomic weights in the periodic table, and being able to solve basic conversion problems involving grams, moles, atoms, and molecules. [Debut]
Ihde, John J. Chem. Educ. 1985, 62, 58.
Stoichiometry |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Chemometrics |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table
MOLEC, Review II (Owen, G. Scott; Currie, James O.)  Hull, Leslie
A molecular structures graphics program that offers a variety of different ways of looking at molecular geometries.
Hull, Leslie J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, A246.
Molecular Properties / Structure
MOLEC, Review I (Owen, G. Scott; Currie, James O.)  Coleman, William F.
A molecular structures graphics program that offers a variety of different ways of looking at molecular geometries.
Coleman, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, A245.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chain Structure and Conformation of Macromolecules (Bovey, Frank A.; Jelinski, Lynn W.)  Carraher, Charles E., Jr.
The first seven chapters are based on lectures delivered in 1981 at MIT.
Carraher, Charles E., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, A209.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Conformational Analysis |
NMR Spectroscopy
A simple polarimeter and experiments utilizing an overhead projector  Dorn, H. C.; Bell, H.; Birkett, T.
Design and application of an overhead polarimeter that relies on small amounts of chiral solution and provides a "dual beam" light source for direct comparison of plane-polarized light emerging from chiral and achiral media.
Dorn, H. C.; Bell, H.; Birkett, T. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 1106.
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The effect of polarity on solubility  Nordstrom, Brian H.
Students observe that iodine dissolves readily in 1,1,1-trichloroethane but not water.
Nordstrom, Brian H. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 1009.
Precipitation / Solubility |
Solutions / Solvents |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Water / Water Chemistry
A useful model for the "lock and key" analogy  Fenster, Ariel E.; Harpp, David N.; Schwarcz, Joseph A.
A model that nicely illustrates this principle is the "SOMA" puzzle cube.
Fenster, Ariel E.; Harpp, David N.; Schwarcz, Joseph A. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 967.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Recognition |
Enzymes
Modeling hypersaline lake "turn-over"  Sprague, Gary
Modeling saline lake inversions with a saturated salt solution in a beaker.
Sprague, Gary J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 956.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Accurate molecular dimensions from stearic acid monolayers  Lane, Charles A.; Burton, D. Edward; Crabb, Charles C.
Improvements to the fatty acid monolayer experiment to determine molecular dimensions.
Lane, Charles A.; Burton, D. Edward; Crabb, Charles C. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 815.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Fatty Acids
Use of Plexiglas planes with molecular model kits  Fulkrod, John E.
Using Plexiglass to serve as a plane of reference in molecular models of organic molecules.
Fulkrod, John E. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 773.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Teaching VSEPR theory  McKenna, Anna G.; McKenna, Jack F.
Suggestions for teaching VSEPR theory for coordination numbers 2-6.
McKenna, Anna G.; McKenna, Jack F. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 771.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
[Brand] rand the name with the linkage of the same  Garrett, James M.
Tool for helping to remember the configuration of the glucosidic linkages in maltose and cellobiose.
Garrett, James M. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 665.
Carbohydrates |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Scientific exploration with a microcomputer: Simulations for nonscientists  Whisnant, David M.
52. A four week-long exercise aimed at involving students with the scientific method through the use of a computer-simulated lake study.
Whisnant, David M. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 627.
Nonmajor Courses |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Analogies that indicate the size of atoms and molecules and the magnitude of Avogardo's number  Alexander, M. Dale; Ewing, Gordo J.; Abbott, Floyd T.
Three analogies to help students imagine the sizes of atoms, molecules, and Avogadro's number.
Alexander, M. Dale; Ewing, Gordo J.; Abbott, Floyd T. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 591.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry
R/S: Apple stereochemistry program  Barone, Rene; Meyer, Roger; Arbelot, Michel
51. Bits and pieces, 20. Computer program for helping students to learn R/S conventions.
Barone, Rene; Meyer, Roger; Arbelot, Michel J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 524.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers |
Enrichment / Review Materials
The "6N+2 Rule" for writing Lewis octet structures  Zandler, Melvin E.; Talaty, Erach R.
Applying the "6N+2 Rule" to writing Lewis octet structures.
Zandler, Melvin E.; Talaty, Erach R. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 124.
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Another procedure for writing Lewis structures  Clark, Thomas J.
A simple procedure for writing a correct Lewis structure for a molecule or ion containing only s- and p-block elements.
Clark, Thomas J. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 100.
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The density and apparent molecular weight of air  Harris, Arlo D.
Simple procedure for determining the density and apparent molecular weight of air.
Harris, Arlo D. J. Chem. Educ. 1984, 61, 74.
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
A bloody nose, the hairdresser's salon, flies in an elevator, and dancing couples: The use of analogies in teaching introductory chemistry  Last, Arthur M.
The use of analogies can play an important role in assisting students in understanding some of the more difficult and/or abstract concepts in introductory chemistry. In addition, analogies can provide an amusing interlude during a lecture and can sometimes help a lecturer to interact with his students. The four analogies presented in this article represent some of the analogies students have found helpful and amusing in recent years.
Last, Arthur M. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 748.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Kinetics |
Stoichiometry |
Thermodynamics
A quantitative gas chromatographic ethanol determination: a contemporary analytical experiment  Leary, James J.
This note describes a gas chromatographic experiment for the quantitative determination of volume percent ethanol in water ethanol solutions.
Leary, James J. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 675.
Gas Chromatography |
Quantitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Alcohols
Molecular association and structure of hydrogen peroxide  Gigure, Paul A.
The typical textbook treatment of molecular association and structure of hydrogen peroxide, and the implications of these concepts for the physical properties of hydrogen peroxide tend to be oversimplified and inaccurate.
Gigure, Paul A. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 399.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Hydrogen Bonding
The determination of anionic surfactants in natural and waste waters  Crisp, P. T.; Eckert, J. M.; Gibson, N. A.
The experiment described in this paper is suitable for the measurement of subpart per million concentrations of anionic surfactants in natural waters and industrial effluents.
Crisp, P. T.; Eckert, J. M.; Gibson, N. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 236.
Industrial Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Surface Science
The chemical oceanographer   Abel, Robert B.
Oceanography holds fascinating subject matter for students learning chemistry.
Abel, Robert B. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 221.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Food Science |
Geochemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Drugs / Pharmaceuticals |
Applications of Chemistry
Absolute configuration in a Fischer projection: a simple approach  Bhushan, Ravi; Bhattacharjee, G.
First year undergraduates find it hard to assign absolute configuration to a chiral center when the lowest priority group is either to the left or right of the horizontal line.
Bhushan, Ravi; Bhattacharjee, G. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 191.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Drawing of ball and stick type molecular models with hidden line elimination   Nakano, Hidehiko; Sangen, Osamu; Yamamoto, Yoshitake
37. Bits and pieces, 14. These authors have developed a simple computer program for drawing molecular structures by microcomputers.
Nakano, Hidehiko; Sangen, Osamu; Yamamoto, Yoshitake J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 98.
Molecular Mechanics / Dynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A computer program for representing molecules as 3-D models   Kalcher, K.
37. Bits and pieces, 14. A computer program is described here that was developed to give students an adequate impression of sterical configurations by drawing molecules where spheres represent the atoms and connection lines between the bonds.
Kalcher, K. J. Chem. Educ. 1983, 60, 96.
Molecular Properties / Structure
A fluorescence lecture demonstration  Bozzelli, Joseph W.
A fluorescence demonstration can be related to several aspects of molecular theory and quantized energy levels; suggests eight different fluorescent dye solutions.
Bozzelli, Joseph W. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 787.
Photochemistry |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Quantum Chemistry |
Dyes / Pigments
The estimation of Avogadro's number using cetyl alcohol as the monolayer  Feinstein, H. I.; Sisson, Robert F., III
Results and calculations using cetyl alcohol as the monolayer in estimating Avogadro's number.
Feinstein, H. I.; Sisson, Robert F., III J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 751.
Stoichiometry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chemometrics
General chemistry for engineers  Kybett, B. D.
A logical way introduce polymers into the general chemistry course. From "The Goals of General Chemistry - A Symposium."
Kybett, B. D. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 724.
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Simple control system for automated, multistage stills  Uphaus, R. A.; Kostka, A. G.
A system that uses LEDs to sense the water level in a still pot and control the rate of heat input to the still heating jackets.
Uphaus, R. A.; Kostka, A. G. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 674.
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Water / Water Chemistry
On the crosslinked structure of rubber: Classroom demonstration or experiment: A quantitative determination by swelling  Sperling, L. H.; Michael, T. C.
Uses a rubber band to examine the crosslinked behavior of rubber.
Sperling, L. H.; Michael, T. C. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 651.
Applications of Chemistry |
Polymerization |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Some simple AX and AX2 structures  Wells, A. F.
Examines three of the simplest crystalline structures, that of sodium chloride, rutile, and fluorite.
Wells, A. F. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 630.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Crystals / Crystallography
A new look at surface films  Hanson, Allen L.
Improvements to the monolayer film experiment commonly used to determine the size of a molecule.
Hanson, Allen L. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 379.
Surface Science |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple experiment for determining vapor pressure and enthalpy of vaporization of water  Levinson, Gerald S.
It is possible to determine the vapor pressure of water using only a tall beaker, a graduated cylinder, and a thermometer.
Levinson, Gerald S. J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 337.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Gases |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
A different approach to hybridization and geometric structure of simple molecules and ions  Eberlin, Diana; Monroe, Manus
A step-by-step teaching technique that directly correlates hydridization with structure.
Eberlin, Diana; Monroe, Manus J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 285.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Graphic display of molecular structures from crystallographic data  Keat, Rodney
25. Bits and pieces, 9. PROJECT-X is a program that translates X-ray crystallographic data into orthographic projections.
Keat, Rodney J. Chem. Educ. 1982, 59, 128.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Modeling
Red cabbage and the electrolysis of water  Skinner, James F.
The demonstration profiled here has proven effective in bringing together concepts from acid-base chemistry and electrochemistry.
Skinner, James F. J. Chem. Educ. 1981, 58, 1017.
Electrochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Acids / Bases
Red cabbage and the electrolysis of water  Skinner, James F.
The demonstration profiled here has proven effective in bringing together concepts from acid-base chemistry and electrochemistry.
Skinner, James F. J. Chem. Educ. 1981, 58, 1017.
Electrochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Acids / Bases
Infrared spectrum of methanol: A first-year student experiment  Boehm, Garth; Dwyer, Mark
This paper describes an experiment in infrared spectroscopy designed to complement an alternative course, and the audiovisual system which supports this experiment.
Boehm, Garth; Dwyer, Mark J. Chem. Educ. 1981, 58, 809.
MO Theory |
IR Spectroscopy |
Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A novel source of distilled water for science laboratories in the humid tropics  Ikediobi, C. O.
One of the most serious infrastructure headaches of developing countries is the acute shortage of potable water. In the face of this difficulty, the author offers some helpful tips for chemistry instructors.
Ikediobi, C. O. J. Chem. Educ. 1981, 58, 788.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Management
Protein denaturation: A physical chemistry project lab  Pickering, Miles; Crabtree, Robert H.
This experiment links physical chemistry with biology and can be done with in advanced freshman course.
Pickering, Miles; Crabtree, Robert H. J. Chem. Educ. 1981, 58, 513.
Proteins / Peptides |
Biophysical Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Tetrahedral bonding in CH4. An alternative explanation  Rees, Thomas
Using the VSEPR theory to conduct a thought experiment regarding the bonding and structure of methane.
Rees, Thomas J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 899.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
VSEPR Theory
Empirical formulas - A ratio problem  Knox, Kerro
A problem involving an analogy between ratios of boys to girls given their average weights and percentage composition of the class by weight.
Knox, Kerro J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 879.
Chemometrics |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A novel method of representing orbitals in three dimensions  Chenier, Philip J.
Suggested convention for drawing orbitals in three dimensions.
Chenier, Philip J. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 788.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Stormy weather  Taylor, Thomas E.
Question regarding the formation of rain clouds and the exothermic process of condensation.
Taylor, Thomas E. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 732.
Thermodynamics |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
Fluoridated water  Muhler, Joseph C.
Answers to a number of questions regarding the fluoridation of drinking water.
Muhler, Joseph C. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 496.
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Optical Activity  Mickey, Charles D.
Historical background of stereoisomerism, the properties of light, the principles of a polarimeter, and optically active compounds.
Mickey, Charles D. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 442.
Stereochemistry |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Enantiomers
Walnut models of simple molecules  Niac, Gavril; Florea, Cornel
Using natural walnut formations to illustrate the geometry of simple molecules.
Niac, Gavril; Florea, Cornel J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 429.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Natural Products |
VSEPR Theory
Bent bonds and multiple bonds  Robinson, Edward A.; Gillespie, Ronald J.
Considers carbon-carbon multiple bonds in terms of the bent bond model first proposed by Pauling in 1931.
Robinson, Edward A.; Gillespie, Ronald J. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 329.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Alkenes |
Alkynes
Name the compound contest (Corridor demonstration)  Koubek, Edward
Providing molecular models for students to identify for credit or prizes.
Koubek, Edward J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 308.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Rotation of plane-polarized light: A simple model  Hill, Roger R.; Whatley, Barrie G.
A simple model that explains why enantiomers of a chiral compound rotate light in different directions.
Hill, Roger R.; Whatley, Barrie G. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 306.
Photochemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Stereochemistry |
Enantiomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular Geometry  Mickey, Charles D.
Methods for determining molecular geometry and the application of VSEPR theory to real molecules.
Mickey, Charles D. J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 210.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Prospects and retrospects in chemical education  Pauling, Linus
Pauling provides suggestions for what concepts to focus on in an elementary chemistry course.
Pauling, Linus J. Chem. Educ. 1980, 57, 38.
Covalent Bonding |
Descriptive Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple inexpensive model for student discovery of VSEPR  Halpern, Marc
A simple model made from yarn and four wooden spheres.
Halpern, Marc J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 531.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Loosely-bound diatomic molecules  Balfour, W. J.
Over the past decade, careful spectroscopic studies have established the existence of bound rare gas and alkaline earth diatomic molecules.
Balfour, W. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 452.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Compact Compacts  Huebner, Jay S.; Shiflett, R. B.; Blanck, Harvey F.
A collection of three suggestions regarding demonstrating the oxidation of hydrocarbons and the primary, secondary, and tertiary structure of proteins and the first law of thermodynamics as applied to air conditioning.
Huebner, Jay S.; Shiflett, R. B.; Blanck, Harvey F. J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 389.
Oxidation / Reduction |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides |
Thermodynamics
Entropy and rubbery elasticity  Nash, Leonard K.
Thermodynamic analysis of the polymeric molecules of rubber.
Nash, Leonard K. J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 363.
Thermodynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Statistical Mechanics
"The bounce principle"  Smith, Douglas D.
A demonstration involving "alive" and "dead" rubber balls. Submitted by "Doc the Clown".
Smith, Douglas D. J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 338.
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Wonder water: Another idea that is hard to work into a conversation  Smith, Douglas D.
The many benefits of degassed water.
Smith, Douglas D. J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 338.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
The aromatic ring  Kolb, Doris
Historic analysis and attempts to explain the structure of benzene, the concept of resonance, Huckel's rule, polycyclic aromatic compounds, non-classical aromatic compounds, and a definition for aromaticity.
Kolb, Doris J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 334.
Aromatic Compounds |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Resonance Theory
Plastics: Utilizing the properties of string-like molecules  J. Chem. Educ. Staff
A summary of the properties of common polymers.
J. Chem. Educ. Staff J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 42.
Polymerization |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Applications of Chemistry
Participatory lecture demonstrations  Battino, Rubin
Examples of participatory lecture demonstrations in chromatography, chemical kinetics, balancing equations, the gas laws, the kinetic-molecular theory, Henry's law, electronic energy levels in atoms, translational, vibrational, and rotational energies of molecules, and organic chemistry.
Battino, Rubin J. Chem. Educ. 1979, 56, 39.
Chromatography |
Kinetic-Molecular Theory |
Kinetics |
Stoichiometry |
Gases |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Development of intellectual skills in the laboratory  Ophardt, Charles E.
This first semester laboratory was designed to give instruction and practice in the intellectual skills of application, analysis, synthesis, and in Piaget's formal operations.
Ophardt, Charles E. J. Chem. Educ. 1978, 55, 485.
Learning Theories |
Qualitative Analysis |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Acids / Bases |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis
Synthesis and properties of an optically active complex: A polarimeter experiment for general chemistry  Hunt, Harold R., Jr.
Synthesizing and determining the optical rotation of d-Co(phen)3(ClO4)3.2H2O.
Hunt, Harold R., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 710.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Synthesis |
Coordination Compounds
Emphasis on acids and bases  J. Chem. Educ. Staff
Considers the acidity or basicity in soils and natural waters; the acid-base balance in body chemistry; acidic and basic foods; the approximate pH values of common fluids; examples of acidic, basic, and neutral drugs; and the commercial preparation of nitric acid.
J. Chem. Educ. Staff J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 626.
Acids / Bases |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Food Science |
Applications of Chemistry |
pH |
Drugs / Pharmaceuticals
Questions [and] Answers  Campbell, J. A.
323-329.
Campbell, J. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 622.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Toxicology |
Applications of Chemistry
Compact compact  Nelson, Gregory V.
Using a cardboard mailing tube to demonstrate the rigidity of the folding pattern and the flexibility of a non-helical region in a protein.
Nelson, Gregory V. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 578.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides
Synthesis in an integrated curriculum  Yoder, Claude H.
Outline of a four-year chemistry program culminating in a senior course "Synthesis and Determination of Structure," for which a separate outline is provided.
Yoder, Claude H. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 572.
Synthesis |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Pre-vacation experiment: The effect of temperature and torsion on the structure of a saccharide  Ford, Linda Kay
An experiment in which students prepare salt-water taffy.
Ford, Linda Kay J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 550.
Carbohydrates |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Questions [and] Answers  Campbell, J. A.
315-322. Eight questions on subjects related to environmental chemistry and their answers.
Campbell, J. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 498.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Applications of Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry
Drinking-straw polyhedral models in structural chemistry  Mak, Thomas C. W.; Lam, C. N.; Lau, O. W.
Instructions for constructing a variety of molecular and crystal structures based on various ways of packing regular and semi-regular polyhedra made from plastic drinking straws.
Mak, Thomas C. W.; Lam, C. N.; Lau, O. W. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 438.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Teaching ion-ion, ion-dipole, and dipole-dipole interactions  Yoder, Claude H.
Shows how electrostatic interactions can be expressed quantitatively through Coulomb's law and taught at a variety of places in the chemistry curriculum.
Yoder, Claude H. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 402.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Silver ion in water purification: A follow-up  Quane, Denis
Applying a previous idea on the possible use of silver ion in water purification to teaching the concept of Ksp.
Quane, Denis J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 381.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Equilibrium |
Solutions / Solvents
Molecular geometries and "repulsive ratings"  Arlotto, Roy J.
A procedure to help students rationalize VSEPR theory.
Arlotto, Roy J. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 306.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Illustrating infrared spectroscopy using commercially available plastic films  Webb, John; Rasmussen, Malcolm; Selinger, Ben
Collecting and comparing the IR spectra of commercially available plastic films.
Webb, John; Rasmussen, Malcolm; Selinger, Ben J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 303.
Spectroscopy |
IR Spectroscopy |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Le Chtelier's principle: A laboratory exercise  Friedman, Frederica
Le Chtelier's principle can be demonstrated by showing that water can boil at temperatures below 100C due to reduced vapor pressure.
Friedman, Frederica J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 236.
Equilibrium |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Gases |
Water / Water Chemistry
New skeletal-space-filling models. A model of an enzyme active site  Clarke, Frank H.
Reviews the molecular modeling systems available for representing organic and biochemical structures; includes requirements and coordinates for a model of the alpha chymotrypsin active site.
Clarke, Frank H. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 230.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Enzymes |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Recognition
Chemical aspects of Bohr's 1913 theory  Kragh, Helge
The chemical content of Bohr's 1913 theory has generally been neglected in the treatises on the history of chemistry; this paper regards Bohr as a theoretical chemist and discusses the chemical aspects of his atomic theory.
Kragh, Helge J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 208.
Periodicity / Periodic Table |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Theoretical Chemistry
Chemist's view of oceanography  Cutshall, Norman H.
The structure of oceanography, chemists in oceanography, chemical analysis in oceanography, chemical oceanography research, and chemical oceanographers in marine pollution studies.
Cutshall, Norman H. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 162.
Applications of Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Vitalizing the lecture. Lap-dissolve projection  Harpp, David N.; Snyder, James P.
Describes and provides examples of the lap-dissolve effect, a technique that uses two 35mm slide projectors to convey changing images in a large lecture setting.
Harpp, David N.; Snyder, James P. J. Chem. Educ. 1977, 54, 68.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Mechanisms of Reactions
Marine biochemistry. A new interdisciplinary course for the interim  Goldberg, Arthur S.
A course was implemented entitled "Marine Biochemistry" as a result of both student interest and increasing awareness of scientists of the potential usefulness of substances from the sea. A number of recent books and articles have been published and used as source material for the course.
Goldberg, Arthur S. J. Chem. Educ. 1976, 53, 717.
Water / Water Chemistry
Non-covalent interactions: Key to biological flexibility and specificity  Frieden, Earl
Summarizes the types of non-covalent interactions found among biomolecules and how they facilitate the function of antibodies, hormones, and hemoglobin.
Frieden, Earl J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 754.
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Proteins / Peptides |
Amino Acids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Hormones
Chlorine in your water  Smith, J. G.
The use, chemistry, and alternatives to chlorine and chlorine compounds in water supplies.
Smith, J. G. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 656.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry
Questions [and] Answers  Campbell, J. A.
206-211. Six questions regarding topics in environmental chemistry and biochemistry.
Campbell, J. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 655.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Applications of Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Construction of models which demonstrate planes  Clark, Thomas J.
Models demonstrating planes of interest can be easily constructed from framework molecular models and polystyrene casting resin.
Clark, Thomas J. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 628.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Questions [and] Answers  Campbell, J. A.
193-197. Five biochemical questions and their answers.
Campbell, J. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 457.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
pH |
Isotopes |
Water / Water Chemistry
Deflection of falling solvents by an electric field  Brindle, I. D.; Tomlinson, R. H.
Using the deflection of a falling liquid by an electrically charged rod to demonstrate the polarity of molecules is misleading at best.
Brindle, I. D.; Tomlinson, R. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 382.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Electrochemistry
Strand polarity: Antiparallel molecular interactions in nucleic acids  Davidson, Michael W.; Wilson, W. David
121. The illustrations in many biochemistry textbooks indicates a parallel polarity in DNA, but in truth DNA is antiparallel.
Davidson, Michael W.; Wilson, W. David J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 323.
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple model of an a[alpha]-helix  Hiegel, Gene A.
A simple model of an a[alpha]-helix made from a toilet tissue tube.
Hiegel, Gene A. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 231.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Preparation and color of azo-dyes  Mosher, Melvyn W.; Ansell, Jay M.
A simple experiment to relate the color of certain substituted azo-dyes to their visible absorption spectra.
Mosher, Melvyn W.; Ansell, Jay M. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 195.
Dyes / Pigments |
Synthesis |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Aromatic Compounds |
Student-Centered Learning
Rediscovery in a course for nonscientists. Use of molecular models to solve classical structural problems  Wood, Gordon W.
Describes exercises using simple ball and stick models that students with no chemistry background can solve in the context of the original discovery.
Wood, Gordon W. J. Chem. Educ. 1975, 52, 177.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers |
Nonmajor Courses
A study of water pollution. An undergraduate chemistry laboratory experience  Sarkis, Vahak D.
In addition to its environmental relevance, a water pollution study of the inorganic constituents in water as outlined in this article, provides the student with certain important principles of chemistry namely, colorimetric and titrimetric procedures.
Sarkis, Vahak D. J. Chem. Educ. 1974, 51, 745.
Applications of Chemistry |
Metals |
Green Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis
Reduction of copper(II) oxide by alkanes of low molecular weight  Hoffman, A. B.; Hoffman, A. J.
This paper describes a laboratory where general chemistry students investigate the reduction of CuO by alkanes of low molecular weight.
Hoffman, A. B.; Hoffman, A. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1974, 51, 418.
Oxidation / Reduction |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A stereochemical model for illustrating pseudorotation of five-coordinate atoms  Riess, Jean G.
Design of an inexpensive, articulated model that simulates intramolecular isomerization or fluxional behavior on five-coordinate atoms.
Riess, Jean G. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 850.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Demonstration of solubility of "immiscible" fluids  Koob, R. D.; Tallman, D. E.
Demonstrating that hexane is miscible in water.
Koob, R. D.; Tallman, D. E. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 724.
Solutions / Solvents |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes
Nitric acid in rain water  Gleason, Geoffrey I.
This trace analysis experiment is based on the conversion of nitrate to nitrite using a cadmium amalgam reductor column.
Gleason, Geoffrey I. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 718.
Acids / Bases |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Atmospheric Chemistry
Computer program for identifying alkane structures  Davidson, Scott
A Fortran IV computer program to identify and name alkane structure having C1-C16 main chains and C1-C4 side chains is available.
Davidson, Scott J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 707.
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols
The Cooper structure - A simple model to illustrate the tetrahedral geometry of sp3 bonding  Walker, Ruth A.
A cut out model illustrating the tetrahedral geometry of sp3 bonding.
Walker, Ruth A. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 703.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Covalent Bonding
The paramagnetism of O2  Lethbridge, J. W.; Davies, M. B.
A simple but more spectacular demonstration of the paramagnetism of O2.
Lethbridge, J. W.; Davies, M. B. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 656.
Magnetic Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A magnetic analogy for demonstrating some VSEPR principles  Schobert, Harold H.
Bar magnets and iron filings are used to simulate atomic nuclei and illustrate the difference in the degree of localization of electron density of bonding and non-bonding pairs.
Schobert, Harold H. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 651.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple demonstration of enantiomerism  Richards, K. E.
Design for a wooden box containing a mirror that uses a molecular model to demonstrate enantiomerism.
Richards, K. E. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 632.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Stereochemistry |
Enantiomers |
Chirality / Optical Activity
Determining the molecular weight of N-fatty acids by thin layer chromatography  Singh, Eric J.; Zuspan, Frederick P.
Simple procedure for determining the molecular weight of N-fatty acids by thin layer chromatography.
Singh, Eric J.; Zuspan, Frederick P. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 625.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Thin Layer Chromatography |
Chromatography |
Fatty Acids
An overhead projection demonstration of optical activity  Hill, John W.
An overhead projection demonstration of optical activity the makes use of two polarizing lenses and an optically active compound.
Hill, John W. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 574.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry |
Carbohydrates
Overhead projection of stereographic images  Crozat, Madeleine M.; Watkins, Steven F.
A simple technique that employs an overhead projector, colored filters, and colored transparent overlays to create three-dimensional images of molecules for viewing by up to thirty students simultaneously.
Crozat, Madeleine M.; Watkins, Steven F. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 374.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A criticism of the valence shell electron pair repulsion model as a teaching device  Drago, Russell S.
The factors that influence the geometry of molecules are much more complicated than the VSEPR model would lead one to believe.
Drago, Russell S. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 244.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple demonstration of O2 paramagnetism. A macroscopically observable difference between VB and MO approaches to bonding theory  Saban, G. H.; Moran, T. F.
A simple apparatus to demonstrate the paramagnetic behavior of oxygen.
Saban, G. H.; Moran, T. F. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 217.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Magnetic Properties |
MO Theory |
Covalent Bonding
The chemistry of pollution - An experimental course  Frank, David L.
Briefly outlines the goals and topics of a course entitled "Chemistry of Air Pollution."
Frank, David L. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 209.
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Strength of chemical bonds  Christian, Jerry D.
Demonstrating the strength of chemical bonds by scaling a molecule up to a macroscopic size.
Christian, Jerry D. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 176.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Metallic Bonding
Dissolved oxygen determination  Berger, Toby E.
Details regarding the cited procedure.
Berger, Toby E. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 160.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Notes on determination of dissolved oxygen  Sommers, Raymond A.
Simplifications in the referenced procedure that make it more suitable for the introductory laboratory.
Sommers, Raymond A. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 160.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
The helix coil transition of DNA  Steinert, Roger; Hudson, Bruce
The design and use of a photometer to detect the transition of DNA from the double helix to random coil form.
Steinert, Roger; Hudson, Bruce J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 129.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Photochemistry |
Spectroscopy |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus
Questions [and] Answers  Campbell, J. A.
Five questions requiring an application of chemical principles and their solutions.
Campbell, J. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 128.
Enrichment / Review Materials |
Proteins / Peptides |
pH |
Carbohydrates |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Special session: Women's caucus  Brownlee, Paula

Brownlee, Paula J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 21.
Conferences |
Professional Development |
Water / Water Chemistry
Beyond the Conventional Classroom. Session II-A: Continuing education  Heikkinen, Henry; Zuehlke, Rick; Alexander, John
Combating technical obsolescence; rent o prof; water, man and chemistry; and an undergraduate-graduate research collaboration program.
Heikkinen, Henry; Zuehlke, Rick; Alexander, John J. Chem. Educ. 1973, 50, 18.
Conferences |
Professional Development |
Industrial Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Undergraduate Research
The determination of dissolved oxygen by the Winkler method. A student laboratory experiment  McCormick, Patrick G.
This method is based on the reaction between oxygen and a suspension of manganese(II) hydroxide in a strongly alkaline solution.
McCormick, Patrick G. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 839.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Gases |
Quantitative Analysis |
Titration / Volumetric Analysis
Radiometric analysis of ammonia in water  Mehra, M. C.
In this experiment, the silver concentration in aqueous solution is determined radiometrically using silver-110 as the radiotracer.
Mehra, M. C. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 837.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Nuclear / Radiochemistry |
Isotopes |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Quantitative Analysis
Sliding friction and skiing  Plumb, Robert C.; Van Hook, Alexander
What causes the film of water to form under skis and ice skates?
Plumb, Robert C.; Van Hook, Alexander J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 830.
Water / Water Chemistry
Water analysis experiment  Anderlick, Barbara
Analyzing various water samples for the presence of a variety of ions.
Anderlick, Barbara J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 749.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Qualitative Analysis |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Metals
Efficient use of washing solvents. A quantitative treatment  Boschmann, Edwin
A quantitative study of the efficient use of washing solvents (e.g. distilled water) in the laboratory.
Boschmann, Edwin J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 650.
Laboratory Management |
Water / Water Chemistry
Simple harmonic motion - A graphic demonstration  Magliulo, Anthony R.
A kymograph is adapted to the study of the vibration of a linear diatomic molecule.
Magliulo, Anthony R. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 640.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Visualization of molecular orbitals. Formaldehyde  Olcott, Richard J.
Using a computer to generate three dimensional charge density distributions of the formaldehyde molecule.
Olcott, Richard J. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 614.
Aldehydes / Ketones |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Measurement of pH of distilled water  Youmans, Hubert L.
Resolving the problem of pH meters giving readings for the pH of distilled water that differ significantly from 7.
Youmans, Hubert L. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 429.
Water / Water Chemistry |
pH |
Quantitative Analysis
Dissolved oxygen. A relevant experiment for the introductory laboratory  Stagg, William R.
Students measure the dissolved oxygen content of water from several natural sources as well as the change in solubility with temperature.
Stagg, William R. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 427.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Oxidation / Reduction |
Quantitative Analysis |
Solutions / Solvents |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Gases
Why is the oxygen in water negative?  Liebman, Joel F.
Oxygen in water is negative because a negative charge, unlike a positive, can be stabilized using ground state ionic resonance structures.
Liebman, Joel F. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 415.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Oxidation State
A modified Rast method for molecular weights  Wawzonek, Stanley
Avoiding problems associated with the Rast method for determining molecular weights.
Wawzonek, Stanley J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 399.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties
The chlorophyll cat  Hardcastle, J. E.
A short poem and cartoon representation of the chlorophyll structure.
Hardcastle, J. E. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 364.
Plant Chemistry |
Photosynthesis |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides
Construction of a framework model of DNA. A class project  Anderson, John A.
A model of DNA is constructed from plastic tubing as a class project.
Anderson, John A. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 329.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chemistry laboratories and other ecosystems  Wynn, Charles M.
Suggestions for reducing water pollution from the chemistry laboratory.
Wynn, Charles M. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 225.
Laboratory Management |
Water / Water Chemistry
The use of a dye in the Dumas method of determining molecular weight  Tibbetts, Donald L.; Salter, E. Mimie
Using iodine to color a liquid in order to determine when its vaporative heating must be stopped.
Tibbetts, Donald L.; Salter, E. Mimie J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 182.
Dyes / Pigments |
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Squeak, skid and glide - The unusual properties of snow and ice  Plumb, Robert C.; Fletcher, N. H.
The Clapeyron equation controls the behavior of ice under varying conditions of temperature and pressure.
Plumb, Robert C.; Fletcher, N. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 179.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Equilibrium
Squeak, skid and glide - The unusual properties of snow and ice  Plumb, Robert C.; Fletcher, N. H.
The Clapeyron equation controls the behavior of ice under varying conditions of temperature and pressure.
Plumb, Robert C.; Fletcher, N. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 179.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Equilibrium
The effervescence of ocean surf  Plumb, Robert C.; Blanchard, Duncan C.; Bilofsky, Howard S.; Bridgman, Wilbur B.
A pure liquid will not foam, but all true solutions will, as dictated by the fundamental concepts of surface thermodynamics enunciated by Gibbs.
Plumb, Robert C.; Blanchard, Duncan C.; Bilofsky, Howard S.; Bridgman, Wilbur B. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 29.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Gases |
Solutions / Solvents |
Thermodynamics
An introductory experiment on phosphates in detergents  Mohrig, Jerry R.
Examines the phosphate controversy, the roles of phosphates in detergents, the chemistry of phosphates and their colorimetric determination, and presents an experiment in which the amount of phosphate is measured using two different analytical methods.
Mohrig, Jerry R. J. Chem. Educ. 1972, 49, 15.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Consumer Chemistry |
Quantitative Analysis |
Applications of Chemistry
Computer generated display and manipulation of a general molecule  Portigal, Larry D.; Minicozzi, William P.
Availability of the Molecular Display Program (MOLDSP) and algorithms written in Fortran IV that transform topological and geometrical information into dynamic molecular displays.
Portigal, Larry D.; Minicozzi, William P. J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 790.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Size of a molecule. Or what's in a shape?  Demchik, Michael J.; Demchik, Virginia C.
The authors describe an experiment which helps students understand why oleic acid is essentially insoluble in water.
Demchik, Michael J.; Demchik, Virginia C. J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 770.
Lipids |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Physical Properties |
Solutions / Solvents |
Fatty Acids
Polywater. A lesson and opportunity in science  Christian, P. A.; Berka, L. H.
The authors present an intriguing observation and offer outlines of some possible studies that can be undertaken in any adequately equipped high school or college chemistry laboratory.
Christian, P. A.; Berka, L. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 667.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Solutions / Solvents
Analysis of phosphate in detergents  Kriz, George S., Jr.; Kriz, Kay Dian
The experiment described here is a response to the need mentioned above and is specifically concerned with water pollution caused by phosphate detergents. It is ideal for today's students who concerned about the environment.
Kriz, George S., Jr.; Kriz, Kay Dian J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 551.
Surface Science |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Heat of hydration  Dannhauser, Walter
A commonly published experiment can be expanded so that students may obtain the enthalpy of the reaction between anhydrous salts and water.
Dannhauser, Walter J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 329.
Thermodynamics |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Noncovalent Interactions
A simple molecular weight experiment  Kalbus, Lee; Petrucci, Ralph H.
The authors share a method that is conceptually similar to the Dumas method and students have had considerable success.
Kalbus, Lee; Petrucci, Ralph H. J. Chem. Educ. 1971, 48, 107.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Quantitative Analysis
Solubility and the chemistry of the covalent bond: More on DDT - A substituted alkyl halide  Hill, John W.
Discusses applications of the insolubility of DDT in water and its solubility in covalent fatty tissues.
Hill, John W. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 634.
Covalent Bonding |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Agricultural Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Is ammonia like water?  Gill, J. B.
This article sets out to compare some of the properties of the two most widely studied solvents, water and liquid ammonia, and in particular illustrate some comparative aspects that are not normally considered.
Gill, J. B. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 619.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Polymer models  Carraher, Charles E., Jr.
A child's "pop-it-bead" set or polystyrene spheres or corks with holes drilled through them and connected with a shoestring can be used to illustrate some relationships of structure to polymer properties.
Carraher, Charles E., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 581.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Polymerization
Hydrogen sulfide under any other name still smells. A poisonous story  Brasted, Robert C.
The chemistry of hydrogen sulfide affords an excellent opportunity to integrate descriptive inorganic and coordination chemistry with biochemistry.
Brasted, Robert C. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 574.
Descriptive Chemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Coordination Compounds |
Enzymes |
Proteins / Peptides
Chemical queries. Especially for introductory chemistry teachers  Young, J. A.; Malik, J. G.; Strong, Laurence E.
(1) What evidence, understandable and acceptable to students, do most teachers cite to describe the transfer of charge from one electrode to another in the direct current electrolysis of an electrolyte solution? (2) What is a compound? - answer by Strong. (3) What is a molecule? - answer by Strong.
Young, J. A.; Malik, J. G.; Strong, Laurence E. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 523.
Electrochemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Stoichiometry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A weevil's loss is our gain or sex strikes the pages on the Journal.  Brasted, Robert C.
The trans-isomer of the boll weevil sex attractant is a million times more active than the cis-isomer.
Brasted, Robert C. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 447.
Natural Products |
Diastereomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Agricultural Chemistry |
Applications of Chemistry
Understanding a culprit before eliminating it. An application of Lewis acid-base principles to atmospheric SO2 as a pollutant  Brasted, Robert C.
The SO2 molecule offers ample opportunities for teaching practical chemistry. [Debut of first run. This feature reappeared in 1986.]
Brasted, Robert C. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 447.
Acids / Bases |
Lewis Acids / Bases |
Atmospheric Chemistry |
Mechanisms of Reactions |
Reactions |
Applications of Chemistry |
Lewis Structures |
Molecular Properties / Structure
An improvement of the vapor density experiment in the general chemistry course  Seiwald, Robert; Gruhn, Thomas; Gorman, Mel
Suggests adding Rhodamine B to the liquid phase to make it highly visible.
Seiwald, Robert; Gruhn, Thomas; Gorman, Mel J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 390.
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A demonstration experiment on partial molar volumes  Coch, Juan A.; Lopez, Valentin
The partial molar volume of trichloroacetic acid can be determined by measuring the increase in volume when TCA is dissolved in water at constant temperature and pressure.
Coch, Juan A.; Lopez, Valentin J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 270.
Solutions / Solvents |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry
Isomerism in transition metal complexes: An experiment for freshman chemistry laboratory  Foust, Richard D., Jr.; Ford, Peter C.
In this experiment students synthesize two isomers, cis- and trans-dichlorobis(ethylenediamine)-cobalt(III) chloride.
Foust, Richard D., Jr.; Ford, Peter C. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 165.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Transition Elements |
Metals |
Coordination Compounds |
Diastereomers |
Synthesis
Infrared spectrometry of inorganic salts: A general chemistry experiment  Ackermann, Martin N.
An experiment in inorganic qualitative analysis for general chemistry.
Ackermann, Martin N. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 69.
IR Spectroscopy |
Qualitative Analysis |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Some reflections on the use and abuse of molecular models  Peterson, Quentin R.
Examines the history of the application of molecular models and model types, and proposes the construction of a new type of model.
Peterson, Quentin R. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 24.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
The electron-pair repulsion model for molecular geometry  Gmespie, R. J.
Reviews the electron-pair repulsion model for molecular geometry and examines three-centered bonds, cluster compounds, bonding among the transition elements, and exceptions to VSEPR rules.
Gmespie, R. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1970, 47, 18.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
MO Theory |
VSEPR Theory |
Transition Elements
Avogadro's number from the volume of a monolayer  Moynihan, Cornelius T.; Goldwhite, Harold
This article comments on and makes suggestions regarding the conduct of and treatment of data in the popular experiment in which Avogadro's number is estimated from the volume of a monolayer on a water surface.
Moynihan, Cornelius T.; Goldwhite, Harold J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 779.
Stoichiometry |
Molecular Properties / Structure
LTE. Normalization of MO's  Hecht, Charles E.
The author suggests that the cited computer program be modified to normalize molecular orbitals.
Hecht, Charles E. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 700.
MO Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Construction and use of atomic and molecular models (Bassow, H.)  Martins, George

Martins, George J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 623.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Crystals / Crystallography
Friday experiments  Bissey, Jack E.
Provides data on an unknown gas and asks readers to determine if it is ideal, as well as its molecular weight and chemical formula.
Bissey, Jack E. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 497.
Gases |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Prediction of molecular polarity by V.S.E.P.R. theory  Daugherty, N. A.
Suggestion for predicting molecular polarity using VSEPR theory.
Daugherty, N. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 283.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory
Wooden models of asymmetric structures  Nye, Martin J.
Wooden blocks are cut to represent molecules of a pair of enantiomers, and are constructed so that they may be readily stacked together to show crystal structure.
Nye, Martin J. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 175.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Enantiomers |
Crystals / Crystallography
Chemical queries. Especially for introductory chemistry teachers  Young, J. A.; Malik, J. G.
(1) Is there such a thing as a negative pH value? Or one above 14? (2) What is entropy, in terms a beginner may understand? (3) On calculating the molecular weight of a solute from concentration and freezing point depression.
Young, J. A.; Malik, J. G. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 36.
Acids / Bases |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
pH |
Thermodynamics |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular symmetry models  Craig, Norman C.
Presents the use of physical models in helping the general chemistry student to begin to replace his intuitive concept of symmetry with a more rigorous one.
Craig, Norman C. J. Chem. Educ. 1969, 46, 23.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Group Theory / Symmetry
Educational film loops on atomic and molecular structure  Wahl, Arnold C.; Blukis, Uldis
Describes six films dealing with fundamental principles of atomic and molecular structure.
Wahl, Arnold C.; Blukis, Uldis J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 787.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Quantum Chemistry
Molecular geometry: Bonded versus nonbonded interactions  Bartell, L. S.
Proposes simplified computational models to facilitate a comparison between the relative roles of bonded and nonbonded interactions in directed valence.
Bartell, L. S. J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 754.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Modeling |
Covalent Bonding |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Valence Bond Theory |
MO Theory
Computer simulation of experimental data  Shwendeman, R. H.
This note describes some of the techniques in programming used to generate a sufficient variety of experimental data to provide each student with his own set of numbers for analysis in conjunction with the demonstration laboratory.
Shwendeman, R. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 665.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Physical Properties |
Gas Chromatography
Calcium carbonate equilibria in the oceans - ion pair formation  Morton, Stephen D.; Lee, G. Fred
Discusses some of the problems encountered in studying the chemistry of lakes and oceans, focussing on the solubility of calcium carbonate in marine environments.
Morton, Stephen D.; Lee, G. Fred J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 513.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Qualitative Analysis
Calcium carbonate equilibria in lakes  Morton, Stephen D.; Lee, G. Fred
Discusses some of the problems encountered in studying the chemistry of lakes and oceans, focussing on the solubility of calcium carbonate in fresh water lakes.
Morton, Stephen D.; Lee, G. Fred J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 511.
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Precipitation / Solubility |
Equilibrium
Framework molecular models to illustrate Linnett's double quartet theory  Bumgardner, Carl L.; Wahl, George H., Jr.
Presents a convenient method for depicting electron arrangements using molecular models.
Bumgardner, Carl L.; Wahl, George H., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 347.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
An easily constructed tetrahedron model  Yamana, Shukichi
A simple method for constructing a tetrahedron by folding paper.
Yamana, Shukichi J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 245.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Simple construction to determine protein molecular weights by the osmotic pressure method  Candlish, John K.
This short note presents a simple device to determine protein molecular weights through osmotic pressure.
Candlish, John K. J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 93.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides |
Physical Properties
Structure units: Aids in the interpretation of chemical reactions  Strong, Laurence E.
the proposal to define structure units as generators of the various properties of a substance has a considerable advantage over the usual definition of a structure unit as the endpoint of some prescribed scheme of subdivision.
Strong, Laurence E. J. Chem. Educ. 1968, 45, 51.
Learning Theories |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Solids |
Liquids |
Gases
Group 1. The Alkali Metals. The Copper Group   Mancuso, Carl J.; Alyea, Hubert N.
Demonstrations include the density and melting point of copper versus sodium, the conductivity of sodium, the reactivity with water of groups IA vs IB, and the stability of CO3--, HCO3-, and hydroxides of groups IA vs IB.
Mancuso, Carl J.; Alyea, Hubert N. J. Chem. Educ. 1967, 44, A919.
Metals |
Reactions |
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Physical Properties
The construction of solid tetrahedral and octahedral models  Sheppard, William J.
Describes the construction of solid tetrahedral and octahedral models from wooden blocks.
Sheppard, William J. J. Chem. Educ. 1967, 44, 683.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular weights from Dumas bulb experiments  Kaya, Julie J.; Campbell, J. Arthur
Describes an investigation in which students use a Dumas bulb to determine the molecular weight of several substances and presents the accompanying data.
Kaya, Julie J.; Campbell, J. Arthur J. Chem. Educ. 1967, 44, 394.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Improvements in the Victor-Meyer  Bader, Morris
Two improvements in the Victor-Meyer have simplified the apparatus and greatly increased the accuracy of molecular weight determinations.
Bader, Morris J. Chem. Educ. 1966, 43, 500.
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Inexpensive space-filling display models  Kellett, J. C., Jr.; Martin, A. N.
Using rubber molds to reproduce existing models in plaster.
Kellett, J. C., Jr.; Martin, A. N. J. Chem. Educ. 1966, 43, 374.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Concepts of species and state in chemistry and molecular physics  Goodfriend, P. L.
This article examines the concepts of species and state in chemistry and molecular physics.
Goodfriend, P. L. J. Chem. Educ. 1966, 43, 95.
Quantum Chemistry |
Diastereomers |
Molecular Properties / Structure
General chemistry exercise using atomic and molecular orbital models  Walker, Ruth A.
Styrofoam balls and pipecleaners are used to construct models designed to convey an understanding of the three-dimensionality of the electron distribution in the ground state atom and the effect of bonding on this distribution.
Walker, Ruth A. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 672.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
The architecture of molecules (Pauling, Linus; Hayward, Roger)  Kieffer, William F.

Kieffer, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 579.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Extensions in the use of plastic tetrahedral models  Fieser, Louis F.
Describes the modification of existing models to provide for the construction of specialized organic and inorganic structures and their use in teaching.
Fieser, Louis F. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 408.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes
Stereo molecular models  Godfrey, John C.
Presents a system of stereo molecular models designed by the author and their various applications.
Godfrey, John C. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 404.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Tangent-sphere models of molecules. III. Chemical implications of inner-shell electrons  Bent, Henry A.
While a study of atomic core sizes might seem to hold little promise of offering interesting insights into the main body of chemical theory, it is demonstrated here that from such a study emerges a picture of chemical bonding that encompasses as particular cases covalent, ionic, and metallic bonds.
Bent, Henry A. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 302.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Covalent Bonding |
Ionic Bonding |
Metallic Bonding
Minimum molecular weight approach for determining empirical formulas  Harwood, H. James
Describes the determination of empirical formulas from "minimum molecular weight," the molecular weight divided by the number of atoms of an element present in a molecule.
Harwood, H. James J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 222.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stoichiometry
The effect of structure on chemical and physical properties of polymers  Price, Charles C.
Suggests using polymers to teach the effect of changes in structure on chemical reactivity, the effect of structure on physical properties, the role of catalysts, and the basic principles of a chain reaction mechanism.
Price, Charles C. J. Chem. Educ. 1965, 42, 13.
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Polymerization |
Kinetics |
Reactions |
Catalysis |
Mechanisms of Reactions
Optical rotation  Evans, J. O. M.; Tietze, H. R.
The angle of rotation of sucrose can be easily determined using this simple demonstration.
Evans, J. O. M.; Tietze, H. R. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, A973.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers
Electrolysis: H2O and H2O2  Eberhardt, William H.
This demonstration involves the concurrent electrolysis of water and hydrogen peroxide.
Eberhardt, William H. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, A591.
Electrochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
Precise atomic and molecular models  Adler, Alan D.; Steele, William J.
Presents designs for skeletal or lattice and space-filling models
Adler, Alan D.; Steele, William J. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 656.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Modeling clay models  Campbell, Melvin D.
Modeling clay can be used to effectively represent a variety of molecular structures and changes.
Campbell, Melvin D. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 612.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Effect of liquid NH3 on wood: A demonstration of the alcohol structure of cellulose  Hirsch, Phillis R.
A lecture demonstration of the plasticization of wood with liquid ammonia can be a very effective tool for teaching the alcohol structure of cellulose to any class studying basic organic chemistry.
Hirsch, Phillis R. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 605.
Carbohydrates |
Alcohols |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Illustrating conformational effects in acyclic systems  Sunderwirth, S. G.
A brief note describing a simple model for illustrating conformational effects.
Sunderwirth, S. G. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 557.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
A model of the ice structure  Lambert, Jack L.; Seitz, Larry M.
Instructions for constructing a physical model of ice.
Lambert, Jack L.; Seitz, Larry M. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 504.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
An atomic and molecular orbital models kit  Stone, A. Harris; Siegelman, Irwin
The models presented here allows one to see the overlap that constitutes covalent bonds.
Stone, A. Harris; Siegelman, Irwin J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 395.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Distilled water purity monitor using an ac polarization electrode  Freedman, R. W.; Radkoff, S.
Presents a circuit diagram for a distilled water purity monitor using an ac polarization electrode.
Freedman, R. W.; Radkoff, S. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 387.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus
Framework molecular orbital models  Brumlik, George C.; Barrett, Edward J.; Baumgarten, Reuben L.
Presents "Framework Molecular Orbital Models," which outline the symmetry axes and the symmetry planes of atomic and molecular orbitals in three dimensions and show on relative scale how far these orbitals reach out into molecular space.
Brumlik, George C.; Barrett, Edward J.; Baumgarten, Reuben L. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 221.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Atomic and molecular models made from vinyl covered wire  Larson, G. Olof.
This paper presents a series of scalar models made from vinyl covered wire.
Larson, G. Olof. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 219.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Teaching organic stereochemistry  Eliel, Ernest L.
Focusses on suggestions for the teaching of stereochemistry in general chemistry.
Eliel, Ernest L. J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 73.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
Tetrahedral and octahedral models  Larson, G. Olof
This short note describes simple models constructed from heavy paper and styrofoam balls used to facilitate discussions in stereochemistry.
Larson, G. Olof J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 69.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Stereochemistry
A magnetic molecular model  Meszaros, Lajos
This short note describes a model of the ethane molecule that demonstrates qualitatively the low energy barrier in free rotation about the carbon-carbon bond.
Meszaros, Lajos J. Chem. Educ. 1964, 41, 50.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Vapor shadowgraphs  King, L. Carroll; Templer, A. D.
Demonstrates the differential absorption of ultraviolet light by various vapors.
King, L. Carroll; Templer, A. D. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, A987.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Removal of hardness and deionization of water by the ion exchange method  Sangster, A. W.
Demonstrates the removal of calcium and chloride ions through ion exchange.
Sangster, A. W. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, A987.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Ion Exchange
Variation in reactivityA demonstration  Bowen, D. M.
Provides suggestions for student research based on an earlier article published in the Journal.
Bowen, D. M. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, A135.
Reactions |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Clathrates: Compounds in cages  Hagan, Mary Martinette, B. V. M.
Introduces clathrate compounds and examines some of their uses and applications.
Hagan, Mary Martinette, B. V. M. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 643.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Applications of Chemistry |
Separation Science
The hydrated hydronium ion  Clever, H. Lawrence
It is the purpose of this brief review to cite and discuss some of the evidence for the existence of the trihydrated hydronium ion.
Clever, H. Lawrence J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 637.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry |
Acids / Bases |
Brønsted-Lowry Acids / Bases
Alkali metal-water reactions  Markowitz, Meyer M.
The typical open-air demonstration of sodium reacting with water does not in reality represent the typical reaction of an alkali metal with liquid water; the article goes on to consider other factors that may influence these reactions.
Markowitz, Meyer M. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 633.
Reactions |
Metals |
Water / Water Chemistry
Tangent-sphere models of molecules. II. Uses in Teaching  Bent, Henry A.
Tangent-sphere models can be used to represent highly strained bonds and multicentered bonds, atoms with expanded and contracted octets, inter- and intramolecular interactions, and the effects of electronegative groups, lone pairs, and multiple bonds on molecular geometry, bond properties, and chemical reactivity.
Bent, Henry A. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 523.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Demonstrating the Weissenberg effect with gelatin  Wiegand, James H.
Describes a simple apparatus to demonstrate the Weissenberg effect with gelatin.
Wiegand, James H. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 475.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Plastic Dreiding models  Fieser, Louis F.
This article describes superior molecular models of a new type available at cost low enough to allow purchase by students.
Fieser, Louis F. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 457.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Chemical bonding and the geometry of molecules (Ryschkewitsch, George E.)  Eblin, Lawrence P.

Eblin, Lawrence P. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 441.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
The valence-shell electron-pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory of directed valency  Gillespie, R. J.
Presents the valence-shell electron-pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory of directed valency and its use to determine molecular shapes, bond angles, and bond lengths.
Gillespie, R. J. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 295.
VSEPR Theory |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Would Mendeleev have predicted the existence of XeF4?  Ward, Roland
The author suggests that a contemporary Mendeleev might have used the concept of molecular orbitals to predict the existence of XeF4.
Ward, Roland J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 277.
Nonmetals |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Contour surfaces for atomic and molecular orbitals  Ogryzlo, E. A.; Porter, Gerald B.
Describes the determination of and illustrates contour surfaces for atomic and molecular orbitals.
Ogryzlo, E. A.; Porter, Gerald B. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 256.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Intrinsic bond energies  Siegel, S.; Siegel, B.
Examines intrinsic bond energies drawn from spectroscopic data and focusses on beryllium hydride as an example.
Siegel, S.; Siegel, B. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 143.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Non-existent compounds  Dasent, W. E.
The purpose of this review is to examine compounds that do not violate the rules of valence but which are nevertheless characterized by a high degree of instability, and to consider why these structures are unstable or non-existent.
Dasent, W. E. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 130.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Letters to the editor  Cockburn, B. L.
Provides a mathematical treatment demonstrating the equivalence of all four C-H bonds in methane.
Cockburn, B. L. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 94.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Letters to the editor  Snatzke, G.
Provides a mathematical treatment demonstrating the equivalence of all four C-H bonds in methane.
Snatzke, G. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 94.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A simple model to illustrate conformational effects in acyclic molecules  Tye, A.; LaPidus, J. B.
Describes a simple model that is effective for demonstrating rotational forms about a carbon-carbon bond because of its excellent visibility in large classrooms.
Tye, A.; LaPidus, J. B. J. Chem. Educ. 1963, 40, 28.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Letters  Goldberg, David E.
The author suggests using the term "continuous chain" rather than "straight" chain so as to reduce confusion regarding the geometry of carbon chains.
Goldberg, David E. J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 319.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols
A versatile molecular model of cyclobutane  Wilson, Armin
Describes a versatile molecular model of cyclobutane constructed from brass tubing and used to illustrate ring strain.
Wilson, Armin J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 649.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes
Lecture demonstration models of cycloalkanes  Schultz, Harry P.
Describes large, sturdy, lecture demonstration models of cycloalkanes.
Schultz, Harry P. J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 648.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alkanes / Cycloalkanes
Inexpensive molecular models  Head, William F., Jr.
Describes the use of seamless, methacrylate spheres in constructing sturdy molecular models.
Head, William F., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 568.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The electronic structures and stereochemistry of NO2+, NO2, and NO2-  Panckhurst, M. H.
A comparison of the electronic structures and stereochemistry of NO2+, NO2, and NO2-.
Panckhurst, M. H. J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 270.
Stereochemistry |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Resonance Theory
Lecture-size molecular models with magnetic couplings  Kenney, Malcolm E.
Describes the design and use of large, lecture-size molecular models held together by magnetic couplings.
Kenney, Malcolm E. J. Chem. Educ. 1962, 39, 129.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The science study series. Volumes 12 and 18  Kieffer, William F.

Kieffer, William F. J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 588.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Nuclear / Radiochemistry |
Water / Water Chemistry
To the editor  Baker, Wilbur L.
The author provides a simple method for laying out the sites for bonds on spherical atoms.
Baker, Wilbur L. J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 533.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Geometry in the beginning chemistry course  Strong, Laurence E.; Clapp, L. B.; Edwards, J. O.
Presents a series of common general chemistry questions and their answers based on a structural analysis.
Strong, Laurence E.; Clapp, L. B.; Edwards, J. O. J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 530.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Ultra Low Conductivity Water  National Bureau of Standards Summary Technical Report
Describes the production of water with a conductivity approaching the lower theoretical limit.
National Bureau of Standards Summary Technical Report J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 421.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Conductivity |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Principles of chemical bonding  Sanderson, R. T.
Develops, through 25 statements, the basic principles of chemical bonding.
Sanderson, R. T. J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 382.
Covalent Bonding |
Metallic Bonding |
Ionic Bonding |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Inexpensive Stuart-type molecular models  Hoover, William C.; Shriver, Duward
Describes a method for constructing Stuart-type molecular models using latex.
Hoover, William C.; Shriver, Duward J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 295.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The ionization constant of water  Dirkse, Thedford P.
Some textbooks claim that the ion product constant of water is constant under all conditions at a given temperature.
Dirkse, Thedford P. J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 260.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Antecedents to modern concepts of configurational symmetry in chemistry  Gorman, Mel
The application of geometric shapes to various scientific concepts is one of the oldest practices in the intellectual heritage of man.
Gorman, Mel J. Chem. Educ. 1961, 38, 99.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Letters to the editor  Lambert, Frank L.
The author calls attention to polymer models.
Lambert, Frank L. J. Chem. Educ. 1960, 37, 490.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Polymerization
Models for linear polymers  Morgan, Paul W.
Suggests models for addition and condensation polymers.
Morgan, Paul W. J. Chem. Educ. 1960, 37, 206.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Polymerization
Molecular models: A general chemistry exercise  Pierce, James B.
Students are provided a list of bond angles, covalent radii, and van der Waals radii, and sufficient polystyrene spheres, and then asked to construct models of molecules and ions.
Pierce, James B. J. Chem. Educ. 1959, 36, 595.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
Models for demonstrating electronegativity and "partial charge"  Sanderson, R. T.
Describes a three-dimensional set of atomic models arranged periodically to illustrate trend in electronegativity and the use of molecular models to illustrate important concepts in general chemistry.
Sanderson, R. T. J. Chem. Educ. 1959, 36, 507.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Crystals / Crystallography |
Nonmetals
The geometry of giant molecules  Price, Charles C.
The author examines a variety of specific examples of natural and synthetic polymer molecules and describes how their geometric molecular arrangements influence their properties.
Price, Charles C. J. Chem. Educ. 1959, 36, 160.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides |
Carbohydrates
Accurate molecular models  Godfrey, John C.
Describes the construction of molecular models that rely on plastics to represents as accurately as possible all of the physical characteristics of real molecules.
Godfrey, John C. J. Chem. Educ. 1959, 36, 140.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Construction of molecular models  Anker, Rudolph M.
Describes the construction of simple, durable, and inexpensive molecular models consisting primarily of sponge rubber balls of varying sizes.
Anker, Rudolph M. J. Chem. Educ. 1959, 36, 138.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The principle of minimum bending of orbitals  Stewart, George H.; Eyring, Henry
The authors present a theory of valency that accounts for a variety of organic and inorganic structures in a clear and easily understood manner.
Stewart, George H.; Eyring, Henry J. Chem. Educ. 1958, 35, 550.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Elimination Reactions
Molecular weight determination by boiling-point elevation: A freshman research project  Wolthuis, Enno; Visser, Marilyn; Oppenhuizen, Irene
Describes an investigation into factors influencing the results of molecular weight determination by boiling-point elevation and the procedure refined through these efforts.
Wolthuis, Enno; Visser, Marilyn; Oppenhuizen, Irene J. Chem. Educ. 1958, 35, 412.
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Undergraduate Research |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams
The pyranose structure of glucose  Miller, S. Porter
The author argues that a good rectangle is a better representation of the pyranose structure than a poor hexagon.
Miller, S. Porter J. Chem. Educ. 1958, 35, 302.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Carbohydrates
Isoelectronic molecules: The effect of number of outer-shell electrons on structure  Gillis, Richard G.
The purpose of this discussion is to demonstrate that the concept isoelectric molecules can be of considerable value to the instructor in developing the principles of structural chemistry, to the student in bridging the apparent gap between inorganic and organic chemistry, and the researcher in suggesting analogies that may yield interesting fields for investigation.
Gillis, Richard G. J. Chem. Educ. 1958, 35, 66.
Molecular Properties / Structure
Inexpensive molecular models for use in the laboratory  Tanaka, John
It has been found that satisfactory low-cost models can be made from wax.
Tanaka, John J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 603.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Schematic models of biochemical polymers  Blackwell, R. Quentin
Demonstrates the use of plastic necklace beads to represent polysaccharides, peptides and proteins, and nucleotides.
Blackwell, R. Quentin J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 500.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides |
Carbohydrates
Textbook errors: XIII. The nature of ionic and molecular species in sulfuric acid  Brubaker, Carl H., Jr.
Addresses misconceptions regarding the strength of sulfuric acid and the nature of ionic and molecular species present in solution.
Brubaker, Carl H., Jr. J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 325.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Solutions / Solvents |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Some aspects of organic molecules and their behavior. II. Bond energies  Reinmuth, Otto
Examines bond and dissociation energies, the "constancy" of C-H and C-C dissociation energies, and some common types of organochemical reactions.
Reinmuth, Otto J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 318.
Covalent Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Reactions
Some aspects of organic molecules and their behavior. I. Electronegativity  Reinmuth, Otto
Reviews the concept of electronegativity as a means of helping introductory students understand aspects of organic molecules and their behavior.
Reinmuth, Otto J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 272.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Periodicity / Periodic Table |
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding
New molecular models showing charge distribution and bond polarity  Sanderson, R. T.
Describes a new type of two- and three-dimensional molecular models that show charge distribution and bond polarity through the use of colors.
Sanderson, R. T. J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 195.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Lone pair electrons  Fowles, Gerald W. A.
The lone pair electrons, whether in simple or hybrid orbitals, have profound effects on the properties of the molecule; these effects may be discussed as bond angles, dipole moments, bond energies and lengths, and coordination and hydrogen bonding.
Fowles, Gerald W. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 187.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
Coordination Compounds |
Noncovalent Interactions |
Hydrogen Bonding |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Model of the alpha helix configuration in polypeptides  Whalen, Thomas A.
The alpha helix configuration in polypeptides is modeled using sheets of ordinary paper.
Whalen, Thomas A. J. Chem. Educ. 1957, 34, 136.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Proteins / Peptides
Amphoteric molecules, ions and salts  Davidson, David
It is the aim of this paper to call attention to the splendid opportunity amphoteric substances afford for the teaching of acid-base principles.
Davidson, David J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 550.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Acids / Bases |
pH |
Aqueous Solution Chemistry
Effect of water on the interaction of aluminum and iodine  Azmatullah, Syed; Viswanathan, Argot
A drop of water added to powdered aluminum and iodine initiates a vigorous reaction.
Azmatullah, Syed; Viswanathan, Argot J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 447.
Water / Water Chemistry |
Reactions
Orbital models  Fowles, Gerald W. A.
Constructing models of atomic and molecular orbitals from papier-mache.
Fowles, Gerald W. A. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 260.
Atomic Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
MO Theory
Models of plane molecules  Harrell, Bryant; Corwin, Alsoph H.
Describes the construction of planar molecular models, particularly for ring systems.
Harrell, Bryant; Corwin, Alsoph H. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 186.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
The Grignard reagent reaches the freshman  King, W. Bernard; Beel, John A.
A laboratory procedure that allows students to distinguish between the structure of ethanol and dimethyl ether.
King, W. Bernard; Beel, John A. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 146.
Grignard Reagents |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Water, a basic natural resource  Keirstead, Ralph E.
Describes the many uses for water and its importance as a basic natural resource.
Keirstead, Ralph E. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 99.
Water / Water Chemistry
Note on the representation of the electronic structures of acetylene and benzene  Noller, Carl R.
The three dimensional nature of molecular orbitals in acetylene and benzene are illustrated.
Noller, Carl R. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 23.
Alkenes |
Alkynes |
Aromatic Compounds |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Covalent Bonding |
MO Theory
A mailing-tube polarimeter  Shaw, William H. R.
This simple but effective polarimeter is constructed from a cardboard tube and a small square of polarizing film.
Shaw, William H. R. J. Chem. Educ. 1955, 32, 10.
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Molecular Properties / Structure
A rapid method for the assembly of semi-diagrammatic molecular models  Zinsser, Hans H.
Mass-produced, airbrushed atoms on acetate film are used to produce three-dimensional images of molecular and crystalline structures.
Zinsser, Hans H. J. Chem. Educ. 1954, 31, 662.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular weight apparatus for use in general chemistry  Randall, David L.
Some of the difficulties that arise when general chemistry students determine the molecular weight of a volatile liquid are avoided by the use of a specialized glass bulb.
Randall, David L. J. Chem. Educ. 1954, 31, 297.
Laboratory Equipment / Apparatus |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Kekule's theory of aromaticity  Gero, Alexander
Examines what Kekule really wrote in his famous paper on the structure of benzene.
Gero, Alexander J. Chem. Educ. 1954, 31, 201.
Aromatic Compounds |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Resonance Theory
Potentialities of protein isomerism  Asimov, Isaac
The permutations generated by structural isomerism in proteins could be demonstrated more convincingly and realistically if the amino acid compositions of actual proteins were taken into consideration.
Asimov, Isaac J. Chem. Educ. 1954, 31, 125.
Proteins / Peptides |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Amino Acids |
Constitutional Isomers
Differentiating between primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols  Ritter, Frank O.
A primary or secondary aliphatic alcohol dissolved in pure glacial acetic acid decolorizes a water solution of KMnO4, while a tertiary alcohol fails to do so; a secondary alcohol will continue to react with KMnO4 solution if a little concentrated sulfuric acid is added, while a primary alcohol does not.
Ritter, Frank O. J. Chem. Educ. 1953, 30, 395.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Alcohols |
Quantitative Analysis
Miscellaneous experiments  Damerel, Charlotte I.
Offers three demonstrations, the first involving molecular models illustrating the generation of optical isomers in a laboratory synthesis; the second demonstrating that liquid sodium chloride conducts and electric current; and the third examining the flow of electric current in an electrochemical galvanic cell.
Damerel, Charlotte I. J. Chem. Educ. 1952, 29, 296.
Molecular Modeling |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Chirality / Optical Activity |
Enantiomers |
Conductivity |
Electrochemistry |
Electrolytic / Galvanic Cells / Potentials
Letters  Brescia, Frank
The author calls for someone to invent another term for the word resonance as applied to the field of molecular structure.
Brescia, Frank J. Chem. Educ. 1952, 29, 261.
Resonance Theory |
Nomenclature / Units / Symbols |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Cork-ball experiments on crystalline and molecular structure  Davidson, Norman
Cork balls and pins are used to construct models of crystalline and molecular structures.
Davidson, Norman J. Chem. Educ. 1952, 29, 249.
Crystals / Crystallography |
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling
Effects of molecular shapes  Foster, Laurence S.
A brief discussion of basic molecular shapes and how they help to determine the physical and chemical properties of substances.
Foster, Laurence S. J. Chem. Educ. 1952, 29, 156.
Molecular Properties / Structure
A method of estimating the boiling points of organic liquids  Pearson, D. E.
Discusses the relationship between the molecular structure of organic liquids and their boiling point.
Pearson, D. E. J. Chem. Educ. 1951, 28, 60.
Liquids |
Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams |
Physical Properties |
Molecular Properties / Structure
Molecular models of silicates for lecture demonstrations  Noyce, William K.
Describes the construction and use of molecular models of silicates for lecture demonstrations.
Noyce, William K. J. Chem. Educ. 1951, 28, 29.
Molecular Properties / Structure |
Molecular Modeling