This Flash animation provides a detailed explanation of the chemistry and properties of water. Animated diagrams accompanied by written explanations show the configuration of the water molecule, how water molecules link together, what the crystal structure of ice looks like, and how acids and bases are formed. There is also an animated diagram of the pH scale showing the range in which most cellular ... Full description.

This networked laboratory simulation provides an environment in which students can select from hundreds of standard chemical reagants and combine them in any way they see fit. Instructors may use this environment in a variety of settings including student homework, group projects, computer lab activities and pre- and post-lab exercises to support varied approaches to chemical education. Activities ... Full description.

This module provides an introdcution to the concepts of fats and proteins. The basic chemical structure of fats as triglycerides is reviewed, and an introduction to protein structure, including the peptide bond is given. Full description.

This lesson is an introduction to the history and use of the scientific concept of the mole. Full description.

This module provides an introduction to the concept of carbohydrates as a macronutrient. The biochemical structure of simple sugars and complex carbohydrates are compared and contrasted. Full description.

This lesson introduces students to the concept of toxic chemicals. Topics include a definition of the term 'toxic', factors that can affect the potential for a chemical to be harmful, and a brief overview of federal agencies that have authority to regulate chemicals in the United States. The lesson includes a a five-part activity in which students use the internet to investigate various toxic chemicals, ... Full description.

This lesson provides an introduction to the use of coal as an energy source. Topics include the history of coal usage, applications of coal as an energy source, and major suppliers of coal (the United States). There is also discussion of how coal is created, located, and produced, and technologies for burning it more cleanly. The lesson includes a hands-on activity in which students measure the ash ... Full description.

This lesson provides an introduction to the occurrence and possible risks of household chemical products. Topics include some basic chemistry (how elements combine to form compounds), how chemicals are classified, and the idea of natural, as opposed to synthetic, chemicals. The lesson includes an activity in which students take an inventory of chemical products in their homes and research the possible ... Full description.

This lab activity uses the internal structure of newspaper (its fibers) to explore the ways in which the internal structure of a material can affect how it behaves. The findings can be related to the physical and chemical properties of minerals, which are influenced by their own internal molecular structures. Full description.

This report provides an overview of the exchange of greenhouse gases, their influences on climate, viability of ecosystems, distribution of biomes, quantities of surface- and ground-water, and some research projects in place to investigate these influences. Topics include lake-atmosphere carbon dioxide exchange, sequestering and exchange of atmospheric carbon dioxide in boreal and subalpine forests, ... Full description.