A Laboratory Experiment Using Molecular Models for an Introductory Chemistry Class

Abstract

A new approach to using molecular models in teaching general chemistry concepts is presented. This has been designed for the first-time chemistry or nonmajor students and only applies to simple molecules and formulas. This approach can be used both as a laboratory experiment or classroom exercise. The purpose of using a molecular model is to provide students with a visual aid to conceptualize different basic topics in chemistry and become active learners. Students construct molecular models and use them to balance simple chemical equations, demonstrate the law of conservation of mass, and discover the relationship between mole and molecules and atoms.