Complex organic compounds are easier to understand when students have a working knowledge of structure and not just the formula. The seven activities in this Lab-Aid direct the students to draw and construct a number of structural and stereo isomers. Sometimes two different organic compounds having the same formula must be identified by their structures. The students build models of structural isomerism in hydrocarbons, alcohol, and aromatic derivatives. Stereo isomerism is demonstrated by the student with the construction of models of cis, trans and optical isomers. 12 complete sets of molecular model components are provided.
Scientific Concepts:
Relate 2-dimensional formulas to construction of 3-dimensional models
Construct models of structural isomerism in hydrocarbons, alcohol and aromatic derivatives
Observe stereo isomerism by constructing models of cis, trans, and optical isomers