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?