Describes two kinematics/dynamics programs (Apple II) easily adaptable to other microcomputers. Kept simple, the programs allow teacher/student to control forces acting on a particle by introducing force laws in programs or by using game paddles/joystick. Discusses equations used and provides program listings. (JN)

Describes a lecture demonstration of a solid state phase transition using a thermodynamic material which changes state at room temperature. Also describes a demonstration on kinetics using a "Big Bang" (trade mark) calcium carbide cannon. Indicates that the cannon is safe to use. (JN)

Theoretical background, experimental procedures, and analysis of experimental results are provided for an undergraduate physical chemistry experiment on electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) linewidths. Source of line broadening observed in a spin-spin exchange process between radicals formed in aqueous solutions of potassium peroxylamine…

Describes a project for students to collect and fit data to a theoretical mathematical model that describes the rate of isothermal seed germination, including activation energy for substrate and produce and the autocatalytic reaction, and changes in enthalpy, entropy, and the Gibb's free energy. (Author/SK)

Presents a description, course outline, review articles and rationale for a course on Polymerization Reaction Engineering at Purdue University, Indiana. (JN)

Discusses kinematics of the planetary alignment in nature and related results. Describes a model of planetary alignments to beginning astronomy students. The model is to explain Jupiter's deviation from a circular orbit. (SK)

Describes a physical chemistry experiment that allows students to test the effect of ionic strength on the rates of a reaction between ions. The reduction of hexacyanoferrate III by ascorbic acid is detailed. Comparisons with the iodine clock reaction are made. (CS)

Derived is the classical partition function for the rotation of a rigid asymmetric molecule, by a transformation of variables in the phase integral circumventing the cumbersome manipulation of the canonical prescription. (Author/GA)

Describes a pendulum in which the spherical bob can roll on a track of the same arc as it swings when suspended by a cord. Comparison of the motion in the two mentioned cases shows the effect of rotational kinetic energy when the bob rolls. (GA)

Describes an experiment in which a simple laser-based apparatus is used for measuring the change in refractive index during the acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of glycidol into glycerine. Gives a schematic of the experimental setup and discusses the kinetic analysis. (MVL)

Discusses an enzyme kinetics laboratory experiment involving a two substrate system for undergraduate biochemistry. Uses the enzyme gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase as this enzyme in blood serum is of clinical significance. Notes elevated levels are seen in liver disease, alcoholism, and epilepsy. Uses a spectrophotometer for the analysis. (MVL)

Solutions to quadratic equations found in solving physics problems sometimes make no sense. Investigates problems in which solutions, such as negative numbers, have significant physical meaning in the problem. Problems are chosen from the topics of kinematics, conservation of mechanical energy, inelastic and elastic collisions, electrostatics, and…

Presents an activity that explores the factors affecting the rate of a chemical reaction. Contains information for the instructor such as details about the chemistry of the reaction, answers to student questions, and sources of additional information and related activities. (DDR)

Describes the measurement of blood speed in blood vessels by using the Doppler effect. (WRM)

Explains the strange effect a crosswind has on motion. (WRM)