Making Marshmallow Molecules

This activity uses colored marshmallows and toothpicks to model atoms, molecules, and compounds. By assembling marshmallows to represent different elements and connecting them with toothpicks as covalent bonds, students can visualize how atoms combine to form molecules and chemical structures.

1. Separate mini marshmallows by color, assigning each color to a different element (e.g., orange = oxygen, pink = hydrogen, yellow = carbon, green = nitrogen).
2. Label bags or bowls with the chosen element symbols.
3. Print or prepare molecule cards showing simple molecules such as H₂O, CO₂, or CH₄.
4. Use marshmallows as atoms and toothpicks as bonds to construct the molecules shown on the cards.
5. For double bonds, use two toothpicks side by side.
6. As molecules become more complex, cut toothpicks shorter to fit better.
7. Glue finished molecules to cardstock if you want to keep them as models.

Marshmallow Molecule Lab - Mr. B's Shop and Science Page:

Crafting with Science - Marshmallow Molecules - CFHTelescope:

📄 Making Marshmallow Molecules - Constellation: https://blog.constellation.com/2020/07/08/making-marshmallow-molecules/

• Try building mixtures by placing different molecules together without connecting them.
• Create more complex organic molecules like glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆).
• Compare single, double, and triple bonds in different molecules.
• Use gumdrops or clay balls instead of marshmallows for more durable models.

• Marshmallows and toothpicks are safe materials, but supervise young children to prevent choking hazards.
• Use scissors safely when cutting toothpicks.
• Do not eat the marshmallows once they have been handled and used in the activity.

• What is the difference between an element and a molecule? (An element is made of only one type of atom, while a molecule is two or more atoms bonded together.)
• Why do some molecules need single bonds and others need double bonds? (Different atoms share different numbers of electrons to become stable, which determines the bond type.)
• How is a compound different from a mixture? (A compound is chemically bonded, while a mixture just has substances physically combined.)
• What does water’s chemical formula (H₂O) tell you about its structure? (It has two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.)