Solubility of Glucose Model

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This model showcases the dissolution of covalent compounds like glucose in water. The carbon atoms (black), oxygen atoms (pink), and water molecules are all to scale, allowing for accurate representation. Individual molecules can be printed separately and placed on top of the molecule, replicating its repeating structure. Using the included water molecules, the dissolving process of a covalent compound can be visually demonstrated by removing individual molecules. The model comes with files to print it on dual extruder printers (recommended) and single extruder printers. A separate file for printing the glucose crystal on a single extruder is also available due to its large size. This file includes instructions for printing a single layer, which can be printed multiple times and glued together. Print Settings: Printer: Flash Forge Creator Pro Rafts: Yes Supports: Yes Resolution: 0.2mm Infill: 15% Standards: NGSS CCSS Overview and Background: Students often struggle to grasp the concept of solubility on a molecular level. This model helps demonstrate how a molecular compound separates into individual molecules when dissolved, providing a visual aid for understanding covalent crystal structures. Students should be familiar with the differences between ionic and molecular compounds before using this model. Objectives: * Describe the process by which a molecular compound dissolves in water. * Explain how water molecules interact with covalent compounds through intermolecular forces. * Explain why certain substances can form crystal structures. Lesson Plan and Activity: Show students glucose or sucrose and ask what will occur when the molecules are dropped into water. Discuss the macro level effect (dissolution) and then have students draw their thoughts on the particle level. Display the model of glucose already set up with individual molecule pieces on top. Add water to the model by dropping in included water molecules, knocking off individual molecules from the crystal. This can lead to discussions about how water molecules interact with glucose molecules through hydrogen bonds, why glucose molecules don't break apart, and how the surface of the crystal must dissolve before the interior. Materials Needed: No additional materials are required besides the model kit; a document camera may be helpful in demonstrating its workings.