Hobbies And Interests
Two-Dimensional Atom Model
A basic, two-dimensional model is not physically similar to the atom itself. However, this type of diagram allows you to explore important atomic concepts, such as orbital rules and subatomic particles. Create a 2D atom on a piece of construction paper or cardstock. Use two colors of bean, candy or paper circles to represent protons and neutrons. Decide on the type of atom you wish to make, and count an appropriate number of protons and neutrons for the nucleus. Glue them close together in the center.
Using a marker, draw circles around the nucleus on the paper. Choose another color of candy, bean or circle to serve as electrons. Count an equal number of electrons as protons to create a neutral atom. Glue these onto the circles according to the orbital laws. The first orbital contains two electrons, while the next can hold eight. Review the basics of atomic structure to ensure your orbital counts are correct.
Three-Dimensional Atom Model
While a two-dimensional model can convey the basics of atomic structure, a three-dimensional model is a reminder that atoms exist in space and can interact along three axes. Use wire, pipe cleaners or metal craft rings to form the electron orbitals that surround the atomic nucleus. Colored pom-poms, beads or styrofoam balls can serve as electrons, protons and neutrons. Be sure the outer orbital rings are larger than the inner rings. Hang these models from the ceiling using fishing line for an educational mobile.
Scale Atom Model
Most atom models eschew proper scale in favor of convenience and visibility. However, to truly understand the physical makeup of atoms, it is helpful to explore the vast differences in size between subatomic particles. A proton's diameter is roughly 10^-13 cm, while an atom's diameter is about 10^-8 cm, depending on the type of atom. This means the atom is roughly 60,000 times larger than the proton.
Measure a field, yard or playground's length and divide by 60,000 to discover how small your proton must be to contain your model in the space. For instance, a one-inch proton requires about 1/3 mile of empty space before reaching an electron, which would be invisible to the naked eye. This exercise provides arresting evidence of how much empty space is present in all atoms.
Orbital Model
In many models, electrons are depicted as small particles, travelling around the nucleus like planets in circular orbits. In actuality, electrons travel much more complicated paths as they cluster around the nucleus, forming electron clouds or orbitals. While it is impossible to predict where exactly a specific electron will be measured, the orbitals have relatively static shapes due to electromagnetic properties of the atom.
Use two different colors of play-dough to form the shapes of the hydrogen orbitals. An online resource, such as the University of Minnesota page on atomic orbitals available in the Resource section, can serve as a pattern for your creations. You may need to create some models in cross section when one orbital envelops another.