Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Analysis Systems to Enhance Laboratory Exercises in Whole Organism Biology

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The aim of this project is to provide undergraduates new experiences in applying state-of-the-art, computer-interfaced instruments to the study of whole organisms. It permits them to implement mebabolic studies at several levels in the Biology curriculum through the acquisition and utilization of two Ametek S- 3A/II oxygen analyzers, the upgrade of the Li-Cor CO2 analyzer to the standard of Li-Cor 6250, and acquisition of appropriate computer and interfacing equipment. The Ametek oxygen analyzers are being applied to laboratory exercises on metabolism in freshman Biology and in three upper division courses. Several of these laboratory exercises examine temperature effects on biological processes. Both instruments and the computer-interfacing capabilities also enrich independent study and research participation programs which are viewed as essential for a strong department. The project is significant because it enhances quantitative and experimental experiences at the organismic level in this department, at a time when improvements recently have been made in instrumentation and methodology for ecological studies and for cellular and biotechnological studies. Students at several levels of educational development now have access to quality systems for studies of organismic gas exchange in highly experimental settings in which instruments are computer controlled and data are reduced and analyzed on-line. The grantee institution is matching the NSF award with an equal sum obtained from non-Federal sources.