Self-assembly or spontaneous assembly is a process in which materials build themselves without assistance. This process plays a central role in the construction of biological structures and materials such as cells, viruses, and bone, and also in abiotic processes like phase transitions and crystal formation. The principles of self-assembly help…

This paper reports the results of applying a particular analytical perspective to data from an interview study: a typology of learning impediments informed by research into learning and students' ideas in science. This typology is a heuristic tool that may help diagnose the origins of students' learning difficulties. Here it is applied to data…

Discusses ways that chemists have traditionally used models to represent chemical structures. Suggests new ways to construct three-dimensional models of receptor sites using thermoplastics or heavy aluminum foil. Provides sketches and photographs of several models. Points out the advantages of using such models over traditional two-dimensional…

Explores the applicability of Mulliken's united atom model to a variety of chemical systems and demonstrates its value as a teaching tool. Considers applications to first row hydrides, compounds of the first and second periods, heavy atoms, and cluster systems. (MVL)

Describes a procedure for constructing point groups based on the symmetric parent molecules of methane and adamantane. Intended for use in teaching concepts such as subgroups and cosets to beginners in group theory. (TW)

Treats the development of general stereochemical principles in historical fashion. Discusses work by Pasteur, van't Hoff, and Le Bel. Considers sugars by configuration, anomeric forms, ring forms, and conformational isomers. Presents numerous diagrams and thorough explanations. (MVL)

Presents an exercise to get students more intimately involved in the three dimensional nature of basic units by constructing models. Uses balsa wood, glue, sandpaper, and a square. Studies seven crystals: cubic, hexagonal, monoclinic, orthorhombic, rhombohedral, tetragonal, and triclinic. Plans are available for a Macintosh computer. (MVL)

Understanding the basic principles of structural biology is becoming a major subject of study in most undergraduate level programs in biology. In the genomic and proteomic age, it is becoming indispensable for biology students to master concepts related to the sequence and structure of proteins in order to develop skills that may be useful in a…