Resumen de Open-Source Laser-Cut-Model Kits for the Teaching of Molecular Geometry

Natalie L. Dean, Corrina Ewan, Douglas Braden, J. Scott McIndoe

• 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.