Improvement in Biological and Geological Sciences LaboratoryInstruction and Student Research Through the Use of a Scanning Electron Microscope

了解外部和内部微观结构及其化学组成对于理解生物和地质系统的功能和发展至关重要。一个高分辨率，计算机驱动的扫描电子显微镜，低温处理系统和x射线能量色散探测器为本科生提供了一个多功能的教学和研究工具。低温制备消除了数小时的准备时间，这使得许多学生可以将扫描电镜用作与课程相关的实验室练习的一部分。能量色散检测器对于化学成分的分析是至关重要的，这对于必须确定样品矿物成分的地质学学生和可能查看沉积在叶子上的农药化学成分的生物学学生来说是很重要的。学生将在许多课程的实验部分使用扫描电镜，但它也将成为学生研究的重要工具，这是强烈鼓励的。通过讲座/演示、实验练习和学生研究，该项目每年将影响917名学生。

9451844 Burtt Understanding external and internal microstructure and its chemical composition is essential to understanding the function and development of biological and geological systems. A high resolution, computer-driven scanning electron microscope with a cryopreparation system and an X-ray Energy Dispersive Detector provides a versatile teaching and research tool for undergraduates. Cryopreparation eliminates hours of preparation time, which makes the SEM usable by many students as part of laboratory exercises associated with courses. The energy dispersive detector is vital to analysis of chemical composition, which is important for geology students who must determine mineral composition of samples and biology students who may look at the chemical composition of pesticides deposited on leaves. Students will use the SEM in the laboratory portion of many courses, but it will also be an important tool for student research, which is strongly encouraged. Through lecture/demonstration, laboratory exercises, and student research the project will impact 917 students/year.