ACS Ethics and Professional Conduct in Chemistry 2

Question 1

Authorship on an ACS journal paper should be based on which criterion according to ACS guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Substantial intellectual contribution to conception, design, execution, or interpretation

Answer

ACS authorship guidelines specify that authorship must be based on substantive intellectual contribution to the research, not hierarchical position or funding.

Question 2

A chemist working in industry develops a synthesis route during employment. Who typically owns the intellectual property under standard US employment agreements?

Accepted Answer

The employer, because the work was done within the scope of employment

Answer

Under standard US employment law and most industrial contracts, inventions created within the scope of employment are owned by the employer, not the individual chemist.

Question 3

Which statement about the treatment of human subjects in chemical research aligns with ACS ethical standards?

Accepted Answer

Chemical exposure studies on humans require IRB approval and informed consent

Answer

ACS ethical standards require that research involving human subjects, including chemical exposure studies, must receive IRB approval and obtain informed consent from participants.

Question 4

What does the ACS principle of 'responsible use of chemicals' require of professional chemists regarding hazardous substances?

Accepted Answer

Minimize use of hazardous chemicals and dispose of waste according to regulations

Answer

ACS ethical principles call for chemists to minimize the use of hazardous substances and ensure proper disposal, reflecting both environmental and personal safety responsibilities.

Question 5

When a chemist is asked to provide expert testimony in a legal case, ACS ethical guidelines require them to:

Accepted Answer

Provide objective, scientifically accurate testimony regardless of who retained them

Answer

ACS guidelines require expert witnesses to provide objective, scientifically accurate testimony; their duty is to the truth of the science, not to the interests of the retaining party.

ACS - American Chemical Society Practice Test

ACS - American Chemical Society Practice Test

ACS Ethics and Professional Conduct in Chemistry 2