It is not often realized by chemists that the special theory of relativity is behind several aspects of quantum chemistry. The Schrdinger equation itself is based on relations between space-time and energy-momentum four vectors. Electron spin is, of course, the most obvious manifestation of relativity. The chemistry of some heavy elements is…

The principles of symmetry and group theory are applied to the zero-order wavefunctions associated with the strong-field t[subscript 2g][superscript 2] configuration and their symmetry-adapted linear combinations (SALC) associated with the generated energy terms are derived. This approach will enable students to better understand the use of…

A member of a related genus of the valerianaceae, Centranthus ruber, is used, that yields a higher percentage valtrate than other related species such as "Valeriana officinalis," there by making easier isolation in pure form.

Discusses the factors affecting the behavior of a spectral function. Lists some important properties of Fourier transform (FT) pairs that are helpful when using the FT. Notes that these properties of the mathematical formulation have identical counterparts in the physical behavior of FT systems. (TW)

Discusses the use of sensitivity analysis in structural design computation. Such analysis can predict how response quantities will vary with given design changes. In addition, it can help student engineers better understand why and when particular structural analyses are or should be conducted. (JN)

Discusses in great detail aspects connected with the visual and mental processing of chemical images. Presents various types of conventions for translating three-dimensional objects into two-dimensional representations. (Author/CCM)

Supplies information to answer typical student questions relating to the significance of "plus" and "minus" superscripts used for electronic states of linear molecules. (SK)

Describes the historical development, performance characteristics (sample requirements, analysis time, ionization characteristics, speciation capabilities, and figures of merit), and applications of laser microprobe mass spectrometry. (JN)

Discusses the use of the FT-IR spectrometer in analyses that were previously avoided. Examines some of the applications of this spectroscopy with aqueous solutions, circular internal reflection, samples with low transmission, diffuse reflectance, infrared emission, and the infrared microscope. (TW)

The story of researcher Joseph V. Smith's solution to the chemical structure of a zeolite known as boggsite is presented. The value of the solution and the use of boggsite are discussed. (CW)

Proposes a simple experiment based on the procedure of Guggenheim and Smith for the determinatin of the dipole moments of two isomeric compounds in nonpolar solvents. Provides background information, laboratory procedures, sample data, results of least squares analysis and discussion of results. (JM)

Describes the author's experience with a model structure used to demonstrate the difference between the idealized behavior predicted by theory and the actual behavior of a real structure. The model is a truss bridge with a span of 1.5 meters. (Author/SK)

Presented is an interpretation of the inward and outward growth and formation of plume textured geodes available from southern Brazil. Field occurrence, morphology of vesicles, growth history, closure of the agate shell, microscopic features, coherent reflection of light from convoluted surfaces, and accessory minerals of the inner cavity are…

Provides a set of instructions for writing Lewis octet structures which incorporates a simple rule called the "6N+2 Rule." Discusses the importance of these structures in elementary chemistry, biochemistry, and organic chemistry courses. Also discusses non-octet structures and how they are characterized. (JM)

Presents a technique to produce samples for x-ray diffraction studies on the Tel-X-Ometer 80 x-ray apparatus from readily available crystalline powders and discusses observations of transverse modes of an optical resonator. (SK)