3D Print Molecular Models

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Using BlocksCAD software, you can 3D print molecular models and help students learn about molecular geometry. By making their own molecular models (like this carbon atom), students will learn about the angles and atoms that lead to specific molecular shapes. How I Designed This Using free BlocksCAD software, you can program your designs with a Scratch-like interface. Using the difference block (found in set ops), you can create holes in each atom (sphere found in shapes, cylidar used for holes). Using the rotate blocks, you can program the angles of each hole and move them about the atom. Overview and Background Learning about Molecular Geometry http://intro.chem.okstate.edu/1314f00/lecture/chapter10/vsepr.html Linear 180 Trigonal Planar 120 Bent Less Than 120 Tetrahedral 109.5 Trigonal Pyramidal Less Than 109.5 Bent Less Than 109.5 Trigonal Bipyramidal 90, 120 And 180 Seesaw 90, 120 And 180 Lesson Plan and Activity This lesson can be used as a supplement to using molecular model kits or be used to replace them (assuming students 3D print an entire set). Because students had to design their own atoms, they are more likely to remember the angle measurements for the atoms (ie 109.5 degrees for C tetrahedrals). 1) Assign an atom (O, C, H, N, S, P, Cl/F/Br/I) to a group of 2-3 students 2) Have them create it on BlocksCAD (check their work to confirm their angles are correct) 3) Print the model atoms (multiple of each type) 4) Have each group present their atom to the class, explaining the angles. 5) Have students combine their atoms into molecules to observe the molecular geometry of certain compounds. 6) Discuss as a class. Skills Learned Molecular geometry chemistry tetrahedrals