Uses an example of literature error to illustrate several principles often difficult to present to chemistry students. Indicates how the significance of previously reported experimental results is changed when previously reported assumptions are replaced by an alternative set of assumptions leading to a self-consistent interpretation of the…

U.S. EPA is gearing up to investigate about 300 hazardous waste dump sites per year that could pose an imminent health hazard. Prosecutions are expected to result from the priority effort at investigating illegal hazardous waste disposal. (RE)

Discussed is the report prepared by the Government Accounting Office on the implications and status of metrication in the U. S. Various sectors of the economy are analyzed, the weakness and ambiguity of current official policy are brought out, and experiences of other countries are provided as guides. (CS)

The instrumental method for detecting total organic carbon (TOC) in water samples is detailed. The method's limitations are discussed and certain precautions that must be taken are emphasized. The subject of TOC versus COD and BOD is investigated and TOC is determined to be a valid indication of biological demand. (BT)

Examines the environmental management issue of government regulation of water use and waste processes. Discusses problems of establishing authority in the interorganizational network of industry-government relationships. Research data are presented from a three-year study of industry-government relationships and pollution abatement change by…

The procedures utilized by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) to develop, evaluate, and validate analytical methods for the analysis of chemical pollutants are detailed. Methods validated by AOAC are used by the EPA and FDA in their enforcement programs and are granted preferential treatment by the courts. (BT)

The Watershed Stewardship Education Program (WSEP) is a multidisciplinary Oregon Extension designed to help watershed councils, landowners, and others work effectively together on water management. Components include practical, easy-to-use educational materials, training in effective collaboration, a Master Watershed Stewards program, and advanced…

Describes how Crossroads School in Santa Monica, California opted for artificial turf for its athletic field to avoid the complications associated with maintaining live turf in a low-water environment. (EV)

Presents one way to use an organized approach to investigation in order to compare and contrast different paper towel brands for their absorption capabilities. Uses investigation procedures rather than formal experimentation procedures due to the nature of the investigation. (Author/MM)

Introduces self-assembling, three-dimensional models (SAMs) that present the structure and behavior of water which facilitates a better understanding of the structural geometry of water. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Suggests teaching strategies for overcoming the lack of student understanding of the principles of the bubble photometer by helping students compare the bubble photometer with the weighing method, develop the concept of assumptions, and resolve cognitive conflicts. Uses an interactive activity to help students expose their preconceptions.…

Presents the study of declining Anuran populations as a mystery to be solved by teams of investigators. Student teams research assigned topics and develop scenarios to explain the declining populations. Provides background information on Anurans along with clue sheets. Describes possible extensions for the activity and provides the source for a…