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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > December  >
In the Laboratory
JCE Classroom Activity
[#99] Clip Clues: Discovering Chemical Formulas
Carmen Fies
Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78248

Diana Mason
Department of Chemistry, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203

Cover
December 2008
Vol. 85 No. 12
p. 1648A

Abstract
In this Activity, students use their deductive reasoning skills as they identify formulas of unknown elements and compounds modeled by paperclips. Each color of paperclip represents a different element, with linkages between different paperclips in appropriate ratios representing 20 unknowns. The Activity supports formation of a basic understanding of elements and compounds, including allotropes, oxidation states, and diatomic elements.
More Information
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Citation
Fies, Carmen; Mason, Diana. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1648A.
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Keywords
Analogies / Transfer; Collaborative / Cooperative Learning; Covalent Bonding; Curriculum; Descriptive Chemistry; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Humor / Puzzles / Games; Inquiry-Based / Discovery Learning; Ionic Bonding; Laboratory Instruction; Nomenclature / Units / Symbols; Oxidation State; Problem Solving / Decision Making; Student-Centered Learning
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
10/24/2008
11/6/2008
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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