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NSF-Supported Projects
Structural Chemistry Initiative
A recent grant from the National Science Foundation is helping our department incorporate experimental structure determination into a range of courses, including General Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Biochemistry. Through these hands-on laboratory exercises we hope students will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the power (and limitations) of the X-ray diffraction technique. More information about our Bruker SMART X2S system and how we are using it in our courses is coming soon.
Symmetry @ Otterbein
Another NSF-supported project has been the development of web materials for teaching molecular symmetry. In 2010, the site received an average of almost 200 visitors a day from all over the world. It was my own frustration with trying to illustrate symmetry planes and axes using diagrams and models that inspired the original web site. The site continues to grow and will soon include additional materials related to crystallographic symmetry. For more information visit the Symmetry @ Otterbein web site including the Symmetry Gallery and the Symmetry Challenge.
NANO @ Otterbein
This NSF-sponsored project has brought aspects of nanoscience and nanotechnology into the science curriculum at Otterbein College. Project activities included a workshop for high school science teachers, the development of several new laboratory activites using scanning tunneling microscopes, and joint Chemistry/Physics advanced laboratory exercises.
Raman Microscopy in the Undergraduate Curriculum
Raman spectroscopy has been incorporated into many chemistry courses thanks to funding from NSF and the generosity of J. Brasch of JB Labs. Two high-resolution Raman spectrometers are now available for use in classes all the way from General Chemistry to Physical Chemistry and Instrumental Analysis.