Abstract
Core concepts can be integrated throughout lower-division science and engineering courses by using a series of related, cross-referenced laboratory experiments. Starting with butane combustion in chemistry, the authors expanded the underlying core concepts of energy transfer into laboratories designed for biology, physics, and engineering. This integrative approach can lead to a better understanding of why energy-transfer steps are involved in metabolism, along with the acquisition of better laboratory skills. (Contains 1 table and 1 figure.)