demonstrations:make_molecular_models
Make Molecular Models
Materials: ★★☆ Available in most school laboratories or specialist stores
Difficulty: ★☆☆ Can be easily done by most teenagers
Safety: ★☆☆ Minimal safety procedures required
Categories: Compounds, Organic Chemistry
Alternative titles:
Summary
Use a molecular model kit to make various chemical compounds.
Procedure
- Use a modelling kit to make various molecular compounds including basic inorganic compounds, organic compounds, and various hydrdocarbons (to investigate formula).
Links
3D Molecular Model Building Activity - Julian Buss:
3D Molecular Models Lab Tutorial - Stephen Stilianos:
Variations
- Use lollies/candies or plasticine and toothpicks as a substitute for molecular models.
Safety Precautions
- No specific safety precautions required.
Questions to Consider
- How does VSEPR theory help predict the shapes of molecules?
- Why are bond angles not always exact multiples of 90° or 120°?
- What is the difference between a structural isomer and a stereoisomer?
- How do lone pairs influence molecular geometry and polarity?
- How can molecular models help explain macroscopic properties like boiling point and solubility?
- Why is it important to visualize molecules in 3D instead of relying only on 2D structural formulas?