This project will incorporate a modern, computer-controlled Fourier transform infrared spectrometer into the established project-based Advanced Laboratory program at Westminster College. This program, developed over the last fifteen years, has been very successful in the preparation of students for a wide range of scientific and technical careers. The new instrument will replace an aging and failing spectrometer whose capabilities are very limited. This project will enable students to gain experience with a modern computer-controlled spectrometer and to use all of the capabilities inherent in its design. The Advanced Laboratory program and Organic Chemistry laboratory will be improved by the addition of many new techniques not previously available: computer data handling, spectral database searching, reflectance sampling methods, and high resolution vibrational- rotational spectra for the study of gases. These capabilities will allow students to study molecular structures and properties in a variety of chemical, biological, and environmental samples. Almost 50% of the students affected by this project are women preparing for science teaching, scientific or technical careers.
