Molecule Creation Kit

thingiverse

This model was created specifically for the MakerEd Challenge, where I aimed to give students a clear understanding of the bonds between elements. Using simple yet effective designs made from spheres and sticks, I illustrated the relationship between elements in a molecule. The element bodies and bonds can be color-coded to distinguish different elements and types of bonds. In my experience, having physical objects to look at and feel greatly improved my understanding of this matter. I hope that teachers will utilize advancements in 3D printing to bring ideas like mine into the classroom. Molecules in photo: left to right: Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen, Water, Methane, Dichloromethane, Carbon Tetrachloride Print Settings: Printer: Flash Forge Creator Rafts: Yes Supports: Yes Resolution: Highest possible Infill: 10-100% Notes: The bonds and valence shell electrons will not fit the holes on the element bodies unless you are at the highest resolution possible. You may have to scale down the bonds a little or sand off the ends if printed at high resolution. How I Designed This Element Bodies: I created two different-sized spheres, punching holes into six sides for the larger body and one hole for the smaller body. Bonds: For double bonds, I took a circle and revolved it 180 degrees. For single bonds, I formed a cylinder and extended it. Valence Shell Electrons: For valence electrons, I took a basic shape and extruded it to match the nub on the end. I then punched two holes to indicate a pair of electrons. To fit the holes in element bodies, I rounded off the edges. Project: Molecule Creation Kit Objectives: The goal of this project is to teach students about the structure of molecules and the exchange of valence electrons involved in molecule creation. Audiences: This project is tailored for college prep chemistry courses taken by high school students, summer school chemistry classes, and home-schooled students. Preparation: Before using this kit, students should know the charges of valence electrons on an element and the octet rule.* Octet Rule: A chemical rule that reflects observation that atoms of main-group elements tend to combine in such a way that each atom has eight electrons in its valence shell, giving it the same electronic configuration as a noble gas. The rule applies especially to carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and halogens but also metals like sodium or magnesium. Cited: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octet_rule Steps: Taking college prep chemistry in high school led me to think of an easier way to understand relationships between elements in creating molecules. I realized that visualizing molecules in three dimensions greatly improved my understanding. Once I saw this contest, I decided to test my idea and share it for others to benefit from. Items may be reproduced multiple times to fit specific needs, especially if one breaks and there is an unproportional ratio of items to students. Labeling element bodies is up to the teacher; they can be color-coded. Straight sticks are single bonds, curved ones are double bonds, and they can be used together for a triple bond. To print in batches, I provided 3D pdf files or programs that can convert "stl" files to the correct format for further editing. Results: By the end of this project, students should build any molecules instructed by the teacher. They should also explain the exchange of electrons when creating a molecule and reasons for its stability according to the octet rule.* Credits: My cousin for lending me his 3D printer for this project. My brother for helping put the molecules together. My sister for taking photos.