Acquisition of an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (uv-vis) is having a significant impact on the undergraduate chemistry curricula. Educational opportunities are being significantly enhanced in 11 existing courses, including Quantitative Analysis, Instrumental Analysis, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Advanced Inorganic, Advanced Biochemistry, Advanced Organic, Organic Spectroscopy, and Elements of Research. The combination of fast spectral acquisition, fast data evaluation, and report generation provides a powerful and productive system. Collecting data at simultaneous wavelengths for kinetic experiments, variable temperature control, and the capability of a broader wavelength range can lead to the incorporation of new experiments in the laboratory and ultimately strengthen the curriculum. The instrument can be used in workshops that include high school students and teachers and college students and instructors from nearby community colleges.
