Fun science: Organic Molecules - Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Isomers

How to show the structure of hydrocarbons to pupils? One option is to use 3D printed models of molecules. We have prepared nine basic models that you can use to familiarize students with the structure of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, cycloalkanes and arenes. All presented molecules contain six carbons. On models you can demonstrate and practice the different kinds of isomerism too.

The models are small (carbon beads diameter is 10 mm). This allows a relatively fast printing many sets of models. That is why each student can work with its own set of models. You can print also a demonstration model (we recommend using 4x magnification).

What specific molecules are contained in the set?

hexane 2,2-dimethylbutane Z-hex-2-ene (cis-hex-2-ene) hex-2-yn Z-hex-4-en-2-yne (cis-hex-4-en-2-yn) E-hex-4-en-2-yne (trans-hex-4-en-2-yn) cyclohexane (chair conformation) cyclohexane (boat conformation) benzene In the files there are also models in molecular PDB format (for direct viewing on tablets, smart phones, computers - in molecular viewers like iMolview).

More educational 3D models can be found also on our website www.e-mole.cz/3d-model.

Print Settings

Printer:

Molestock

Rafts: 

Yes

Supports:

Yes

Resolution: 

layer 0.2 mm (nozzle 0.4)

Infill:

10 %

Notes:

PLA

Category: Learning

(Originally published on Thingiverse.com - Apr 15, 2017)