Abstract
Large-scale molecular orbital balloon models have been designed and developed for implementation in the general, organic, or physical chemistry classroom. The purposes of the models are to help students visualize and understand concepts of pi-bonding, conjugation, aromaticity, and cycloaddition reactions or symmetry-controlled reactions. Second-semester organic chemistry students have welcomed the models with positive responses, claiming that the 3D models bring 2D textbook and lecture images to life. The balloon models may be constructed and presented by the instructor during a formal lecture, or they may be constructed by students during problem-solving workshops. Short video tutorials have been created to demonstrate the construction of these inexpensive classroom manipulatives.
Highlights
Why Balloons? Our student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society [1] successfully uses balloons for public outreach and fundraising activities
By using 260 modeling “twist” balloons and 5-inch round balloons, [11] tangible models can be quickly constructed in class to help students visualize the concepts of pi-bonding, conjugated systems, and molecular orbital (MO) theory (Figure 1)
A cis alkene model can quickly be repositioned into a trans alkene, but the pi bond must be broken in the process. (Figure 2 a & b)
Summary
Our student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society [1] successfully uses balloons for public outreach and fundraising activities. Balloons do not require much storage room, but when they are inflated, they are large enough to see from a great distance. There have been many papers published regarding the use of balloons as an aid in teaching various chemical concepts. [6] Balloons have been used teach VSEPR theory, [7] atomic orbitals, [8] and the modeling of organic molecules. [9] Balloons of different shapes and sizes are readily available at party stores, large retail stores, and online venders [10] The ever-popular hydrogen balloon explosion. [6] Balloons have been used teach VSEPR theory, [7] atomic orbitals, [8] and the modeling of organic molecules. [9] Balloons of different shapes and sizes are readily available at party stores, large retail stores, and online venders [10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
