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Molecular models are used to represent the shapes of molecules. There are a number of different types of molecular model kits available. The commonest type used in schools and colleges use different coloured balls to represent different atoms. They are drilled with a number of holes so that the correct number of bonds can be attached at the appropriate angles for each atom type. |
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When molecules are constructed from the kit we can see their overall shape. The molecule's shape is very important as it allows us to see how interactions can occur between the molecules themselves and other molecules. It usually doesn't take students too long to work out that they can also make nice models of small animals from the kits!
Other types of molecular model kit are available. Stick models show the basic skeleton of the molecule. Space-filling models are more realistic in that they show the real extent of each atom. In other words, there are not the large gaps between the atoms as suggested by the other models.
Industry and higher education tend to use computer aided modelling. This produces a three dimensional image of the molecule and allows it to be manipulated by computer.
