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Teaching VSEPR: The Plastic Egg Model

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James P. Birk and Soraya Abbassian

Department of Chemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1604

J. Chem. Educ., 1996, 73 (7), p 636

DOI: 10.1021/ed073p636

Publication Date (Web): July 1, 1996

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory is taught best by using models. Although a number of models have been described previously, they suffer from a number of defects, especially in that they require a considerable amount of manipulation by the lecturer and they are not readily available for hands-on use by students. We describe the construction and use of a set of models based on plastic eggs, which afford advantages over the previously described models. The plastic egg models allow users to easily distinguish lone pairs from each other by color coding. The models can be used for molecules with more than one central atom. Free rotation of sigma bonds can be easily demonstrated. Mechanisms for SN1 and SN2 reactions can be depicted, providing a model for the inversion or retention of configuration.

Keywords (Audience):

First-Year Undergraduate / General

Keywords (Domain):

Demonstrations

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Molecular Modeling

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

Intermediates, Transition States, Butterflies, and Frogs
Trevor M. Kitson
Journal of Chemical Education2001 78 (4), 504
- Intermediates, Transition States, Butterflies, and Frogs
  Trevor M. Kitson
  Journal of Chemical Education2001 78 (4), 504
  An analogy that may be useful in the classroom is described. The changes that occur in typical simple SN1 and SN2 reactions are compared to the metamorphoses undergone by caterpillars and tadpoles, respectively.
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