Through this project, the institution acquired a Fourier Transform Infrared (FAIR) Spectrometer which markedly improved the instructional program in Chemistry at the college. The improvements included: (1) doubling the number of experiments using infrared spectroscopy in the curriculum. The new level of exposure to infrared spectral interpretation has been ideal for the training of students in this key technique. (2) For the first time, students have been able to learn and use the important concepts of signal averaging and Fourier transform spectroscopy. (3) The purchase of diffuse reflectance sampling accessory for the FAIR allowed easy and rapid study of solid samples with infrared spectroscopy. (4) The excitement of modern scientific instrumentation has been transmitted to introductory level students, both majors and non-majors. These efforts have built on the department's successful incorporation of advanced instruments in first year courses, and have extended to courses which had no usage of modern instrumentation. The curricular improvements include all branches of chemistry, and have benefitted students ranging from precollege level to senior chemistry majors doing independent research projects. The institution has contributed to this project in an amount equal to the NSF funds.
