A Mini-Computer Generated Freshman Kinetics Experiment We have developed a computer-generated kinetics experiment for the freshman laboratory. The intent of the exercise is not only to teach simple solution kinetics, but also to expose the student to the basics of computer programming. The mini-computer used was a Hewlett-Packard Model 9820 programmable calculator. The experimental procedure is as fallows: Based on the student's assigned number, the computer generates three sets of kinetic data for the general reaction, A Products. The three sets of data are for first, second, and third order reactions and are generated in random order. The student analyzes the data generated to find both the rate law and rate constant with simple programs which he has written. The student then discusses the data, proposing mechanisms and explanations. Since the calculator programs in a "Fortran-like" language, we feel that this experiment is an invaluable introduction to computer programming and gives the student the necessary theoretical background to more easily handle follow-up experimental kinetics lahorstaries. Additionally, we have had a great deal of success in teaching relatively complicated mathematical procedures using the mini-computer where ordinary techniques failed to interest the students. The programs can he generalized tb any mini-computer or standard computer. Copies of the experiments and programs are available upon request.
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Metropolitan S t a t e College Denver, Colorado 80204
544
1 Journal of Chemical Education
Jack D. Cummins M. A. Wartell
