A Fresh Approach to the General Chemistry Curriculum Using the Unique Capabilities of Lasers

这个项目将通过使用低成本和容易获得的激光光源的创新讲座演示来说明入门化学中的基本概念。在普通化学课程中融入这些创新将提高学生对当代创造性方法的认识，以解决化学中的经典问题。课程演示将加强热力学、动力学、酸碱平衡、化学键和原子光谱学等主题的教学。这些以激光为基础的活动旨在加深学生对课程材料的理解，并激发他们对化学的兴趣。学生将更准确地反映化学的动态性质和该领域对技术进步的反应，以及对目前化学实践方式的说明。从这个项目开发的课程材料将从其他机构提供给本科生社区，并将在国家和地方化学和教育会议上展示。

This project will illustrate fundamental concepts in introductory chemistry through innovative lecture demonstrations that involve the use of low-cost and readily accessible laser light sources. Incorporation of these innovations in the General Chemistry course will enhance students' awareness of the creative contemporary approaches available to pursue classical questions in chemistry. The lecture demonstrations will augment teaching of such topics as thermodynamics, kinetics, acid-base equilibria, chemical bonding, and atomic spectroscopy. These laser-based activities are designed to enrich the students' understanding of the course material and stimulate their interest in chemistry. Students will gain a more accurate reflection of the dynamic nature of chemistry and the responsiveness of the field to advances in technology as well as an illustration of the way in which chemistry is currently practiced. Curricular materials developed from this project will be made available to the undergraduate community from other institutions and will be presented at national and local conferences in chemistry and education.