Emphasizing Environmental Science Studies"Instrumentation being funded through this project consists of a versatile gas chromatography system and a microprocessor-controlled environmental growth chamber. Biology and chemistry majors are employing these instruments in their studies of microbial growth under special conditions, dynamics of small-scale biotic systems, and GC analysis of organic pollutants in natural waters. Majors proficient in GC water analysis are working with non-majors to apply that technology in freshman-level environmental science projects. These projects serve as key bridging elements in a two-course sequence for non-science majors consisting of a chemistry course followed by an environmental science course. Instrumental methods introduced in the chemistry course enable students to perform environmental science laboratory exercises consistent with current professional practices. Significant features of this project include collaboration between science majors and non-majors to address environmental concerns and the development of an environmental science laboratory for non- majors.NSF grant funds are being matched with funds from non- federal sources.
