Design of a Molecular Model Set Based on Ping-Pong Balls Loaded with Magnets

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 21 (2016) pp 1-2

Design of a Molecular Model Set Based on Ping-Pong Balls Loaded with Magnets

Ryo Horikoshi*

Department of Chemistry, College of General Education, Osaka Sangyo University, Nakagaito, Daito, Osaka 574-8530, Japan, ryo.horikoshi@las.osaka-sandai.ac.jp
Received September 22, 2015. Accepted December 18, 2015.

Published: 8 January 2016

Abstract. The design and use of a molecular model set that can be easily pulled apart are described. Each atomic piece is constructed from spherical magnets and metal tubes installed in colored ping-pong balls. The magnets can roll inside the ping-pong ball and be drawn to other magnets outside the ball, allowing assembly and disassembly of the molecular models. The molecular model set can be used to illustrate simple chemical reactions and constitutional isomers.

Key Words: Laboratories and Demonstrations; general chemistry; reaction stoichiometry; molecular model

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: ryo.horikoshi@las.osaka-sandai.ac.jp)

Article in PDF format (251 KB) HTML format

Supporting Materials:

Detailed instructions for the atomic pieces and molecular models plus notes for instructors are available in the Supporting Materials. (103 KB).