October 2024 Xchange

The October 2024 Xchange includes highlights of recent contributions published on ChemEd X along with some from the archives. We hope you will take a moment to check in to see what you may have missed.

APTeach - Energetic Collisions In our next AP Teach meeting, join us to discuss Kinetic Molecular Theory, Maxwell-Boltzmann curves, and why gases deviate from ideal predictions. REGISTER NOW for the October 24th APTeach Session!
	The WEIRDEST Chemical Reaction Ever Seen! This chemical reaction is just plain weird...but also beautiful!
Fluorescence Rocks! Exploring Glowing Sodalite Syenite rocks containing sodalite that fluoresce yellow have been found on Lake Superior beaches in recent years and are of interest to collectors. The fluorescence of this mineral, which can be found in other localities, can be shown in classrooms and studied spectroscopically. Its structure can also be modeled with LEGO bricks, enabling further classroom connections.
	Using Information from the 2024 AP Chemistry Reading to Improve Exam Performance Michael Farabaugh outlines mistakes and misconceptions that were encountered during the 2024 AP Reading and offers suggestions for improving performance on the AP Chemistry exam.
The Fun Side of Gas Laws: Brain Breaks with Boyle's Law Looking for a fun way to teach gas laws? Try using brain breaks! Activities like the Longest Straw Challenge and Suck it Up Skittles Challenge not only get students up and moving but also make learning Boyle's Law engaging and memorable.
	Exploring Nomenclature Ashley Green shares how she recently changed up her nomenclature unit by asking her students to look for patterns in names and formulas.
ChemEd X Call for Contributions ChemEd X invites practitioners in the chemical education community to share their experiences, knowledge and the resources they use in their classroom and laboratory.

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