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How to Make 3D Styrofoam Atoms

All matter within the universe is made from tiny building blocks known as atoms. An atom consists of a central nucleus, which contains sub-atomic particles called protons and neutrons, surrounded by shells of electrons. Protons carry a positive charge, neutrons are neutral, and electrons carry a negative charge. When students first come across the idea of the atom, it can be difficult to visualize, but physical models can aid with this. A 3-D model of an atom can be made from Styrofoam balls.

Things You'll Need

6 Styrofoam balls (2-inch diameter)
3 Styrofoam balls (1/2-inch diameter)
Chicken wire
Pliers
Red paint
Blue paint
Paint brush
Permanent marker
Glue

Instructions

- 1
  Paint three of the 2-inch Styrofoam balls red, and paint the remaining 3 blue. Paint the 1/2-inch Styrofoam balls yellow. Wait two hours for the paint to dry.
- 2
  Using the marker pen, write a large "+" sign on the blue balls. The blue balls are representative of the positively charged protons in the nucleus of the atom. Write a large "0" on the red balls. The red balls are representative of the neutral neutrons in the nucleus of the atom. Write a large "-" sign on the yellow balls. The yellow balls are representative of the negatively charged electrons that surround the nucleus.
- 3
  Glue all of the 2-inch balls together in order to form the nucleus. Wait two hours for the glue to dry.
- 4
  Using the pliers, cut three pieces of chicken wire, each 3 inches in length. Push each of three pieces into the model of the nucleus so they are poking out in different directions. Push a yellow ball into the free end of the chicken wire. The model of the atom is now complete.

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