more than one functional group. There are a few complicated compounds important because of their very general natural occurrence, and there are a certain number of simpler substances such as glycerol, oxalic acid, etc., which can be used to illustrate the large number of products of reaction that are possible. It may even be advisable to point out, with one or two examples, the fact that two functional groups in a certaim relationship to each other within the molecule will sometimes make possible certain special reactions. Natural Products.- The importance of natural products as sources of organic compounds should be emphasized, and sufficient stress should be laid on important facts concerning animal and vegetable oils, carbohydrates, proteins, etc. Practical Applications.- The average introductory student will have his or her interest in organic chemistry stimulated far more deeply if, wherever possible, the teacher takes the opportunity to point out the practical application of whatever compound may be in process of discussion. The fundamentals are appreciated much more if a clear understanding of the relationship of organic chemistry to everyday substances is pointed out. Electronic Conceptions.- The electronic conception of valence should best be reserved for discussion in the second course in organic chemistry. Students with a general knowledge of the field of organic chemistry are in a better position to give the proper weight to such conceptions than if such conceptions must be absorbed a t the same time as the more important fundamental facts are being presented.
Garlic Smell Made Rose Sweet by Chemist. Changing the odor of substances that ordinarily smell like rotten eggs and garlic to the fragrance of the geranium and the tea rose is part of the work of Dr. Marston Taylor Bogert, professor of organic chemistry in Columbia University. Professor Bog& is director of the research department established in the University more than a year ago by the American Manufacturers of Toilet Articles, the orpanization representing the perfume and cosmetic industry, for the purpose of making a study of the relation between odor and chemical constitution. Since the founding of this department gratifying and startling results have been obtained. Thenew suliurandseleniumcompoundis typical. Ordinarily unoxidized sulfw or selenium organic compounds have exceedingly disgusting and unpleasant odors. Sometimes the odor is so powerful that 1/460,000,000 of a milligram of the substance is sufficient to give a fairly perceptible smell. The odor of sulfur is like rotten eggs: .. . - - . that of selenium, like rotten eggs and garlic. Yet Professor Bogert and his associates have sueceeded in svnthesizine a totally new compound containinz both unoxidized sulfur and unoxidized selenium, yet recalhg in its fragrance the geranium and the tea rose.Science S e m k
