Programs For Chemistry

The package consists of four pairs of programs:

Crystal Structures are two of the most colorful and exciting modules. The seven crystal systems are modeled and presented so that the user can clearly see the similarities and differences between the systems. We include ball and stick models as well as space-filling representations to prepare the student for closest-packed structures and ionic lattices. The quiz contains exercises for the student that examine all of the material in Crystal Structures.

Hybridization of Atomic Orbitals offers a model for understanding bonding in molecules. Hybrid orbitals involving s and p atomic orbitals are explained in detail and three-dimensional models illustrate each type of hybrid set. Subsequently, hybrid orbitals involving the participation of d orbitals are described. These modules includes discussion of sigma, pi, and delocalized pi bonds.

Lewis Structures illustrates the basic concepts of G.N. Lewis's representations of the valence shell electronic structures of atoms and molecules. The quiz allows the user to apply the procedures they learn to determine formal charges and the best Lewis representations for molecules and polyatomic ions.

VSEPR introduces the rules for using valence shell electron pair repulsion theory to predict the shapes of simple molecules. The program illustrates the different repulsions between bonding and non-bonding electron pairs so that the shape of a molecule may be determined. The quiz allows students to practice identifying the correct arrangements of electron pairs surrounding a central atom, and, based on these arrangements, to predict the actual geometric shapes of simple molecules.

http://www.cem.msu.edu/~gencem/index.html