Open-Source Laser-Cut-Model Kits for the Teaching of Molecular Geometry
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[1] University of Victoria
University of Victoria
Canadá
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- Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 96, Nº 3, 2019, págs. 495-499
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
Comprehension of the 3D structure of objects usually represented in 2D is a critical part of understanding molecular geometries. The frequency with which students actually get hands-on with 3D molecular structures is often limited to a singular laboratory session. We sought to develop a set of molecular shapes that were inexpensive enough not only to deploy in a first-year laboratory setting but also to allow the students to take the set home with them to study at their leisure. Laser-cut acrylic parts in five colors were used, and each set could be quickly assembled into the 13 different molecular shapes commonly encountered at the first-year level. The set of shapes was attractive, useful, and easy and fast to fabricate, and they were appreciated by our students. All files have been released in an open-source format, so any interested parties can deploy these models as soon as they secure access to a suitable laser cutter.
