Reinforcing Isotope and Atomic-Weight Concepts in General Chemistry Using Internet-Based Mass-Spectral Data

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 6 Issue 2 (2001) pp 112-113

Reinforcing Isotope and Atomic-Weight Concepts in General Chemistry Using Internet-Based Mass-Spectral Data

Kim L. Pamplin* and Perry C. Reeves

Department of Chemistry, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas 79699
Received September 15, 2000. Accepted December 1, 2000

Published online: 12 January 2001

Abstract. This paper describes how isotope and atomic-weight concepts are enhanced for students using mass-spectral data from interactive Internet sites. The class considers mass spectra for compounds containing only monoisotopic elements and later for polyisotopic elements. Students calculate molecular weights based on data they acquire from mass spectra on the Internet.

Key Words: Computers in Chemistry; general chemistry; Internet, mass spec

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: pamplink@acu.edu)

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