Construction of an AM Radio in a Chemistry Lab

Despite the critical role electronics plays in instrument design and data collection and processing, the teaching of electronics in analytical chemistry has diminished. More commonly, current instructional methods focus on a systems approach to instrumentation that stresses design layout using preconfigured modular electronic components. This article describes the construction of a low-cost AM radio that places a greater emphasis on the design and construction of electronic circuits. The project uses active learning strategies so that students must problem-solve, think creatively, and learn to work in a team environment as they design electronic circuits to achieve the project goal. The activity serves as a platform for more sophisticated student DIY semester-long projects such as Raman spectrometers, NMR probes, and cyclic voltammeters among many other instruments.