Atomic Orbitals Manipulative

A simple manipulative to help students practice electron configurations with atomic orbitals. Typically this is done with paper and pencil models but I wanted to add a tactile component to lessons.

This tool can be used for simple electron configurations and can be paired with tools such as Interactive Periodic Tables (https://ptable.com/#Electrons/OxidationStates) to check work. Lessons can also be adapted to include configurations that violate Aufbau Principle and Hund's Rule as well as facilitating discussions of excited states.

The base plate has space to hold 36 electrons allowing students to practice electron configurations for elements 1-36. The base measures 15cm x 20cm x 5cm. Each orbital is recessed so that electrons can be slotted into the base easily. Electrons will stick out a little to make it easier for students to manipulate.