Surveyed are the etymology and the reason scientists coined a specific name for a newly discovered element. Approaches to naming from a historical viewpoint are considered. (CW)

Discusses the diversity of names used for various types of polymeric materials. Concentrates on the naming of linear organic polymers. Delineates these polymers by discussing common names, source-based names, characteristic group names, and structure-based names. Introduces the specifications of tacticity and geometric isomerism. (TW)

Discussed are some of the issues which were considered when the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry revised its guide to notation in physical chemistry. Included are the choice between SI and non-SI units and choosing sensible names and symbols for quantities. (CW)

Discussed are the substructures (subgraphs) of imaginary transition structures that provide an effective approach to the characterization of organic reactions. A comparison of conventional methods and this method is presented. (CW)

Various typs of DNA are discussed. Areas considered include highly repetitive and satellite sequences, genes encoding, ribosomal RNA, histone protein genes, and dispersed repeated genes that jump. Regulated genetic misbehavior, structure and use of unique genes, and higher order complexities of chromosomes are also discussed. (JN)

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

Differentiates between chemical nomenclature and the common ways that substances are named and described. Students should learn the chemical nomenclature so that they will be more observant and objective. Cites examples of student misconceptions based upon their own imagination and logic. (TW)

Provides background information on rocks and minerals, including the unique characteristics of each. Teaching activities on rock-hunting and identification, mineral configurations, mystery minerals, and growing crystals are provided. Reproducible worksheets are included for two of the activities. (TW)