Carolina ChemKits®: Molecular Modeling

• Draw Lewis dot structures and determine if molecules are polar
• Model electron domains and molecular geometry
• Includes 8 molecular model sets

Make the invisible visible
Students apply VSEPR theory to predict molecular geometries and model electron domains with balloons. They construct 3-D molecular models with durable, reusable molecular model sets and gain practice sketching 3-D line structures of molecules.

Use data to understand molecules
Students use electronegativity difference to classify bonds as ionic, polar covalent, or nonpolar covalent, then they apply valence bond theory to draw Lewis dot structures. They also determine if a molecule's polarity results in a dipole moment.

This kit was designed for a class of 32 working in 8 groups and requires approximately 120 min to complete. Each of the 4 activities can easily be performed within a typical 40-min block. Consider ordering an extra kit and having students work in pairs. All materials are reusable except the balloons. Includes a BONUS activity to introduce students to modeling hydrocarbons.