Home >> Science & Nature >> Science

How to Make a Model of an Atom Out of Styrofoam Ball & Candy

All matter is composed of atoms of the various elements. The atom itself is composed of protons, neutrons and electrons. The protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus, while the electrons are found orbiting around the nucleus. Protons are positively charged particles, while neutrons have no charge. This means that the nucleus of the atom has a net positive charge. The electrons orbiting around the nucleus have a negative charge and are attracted to the nucleus. A model of the atom can be constructed using a few simple items.

Things You'll Need

Large Styrofoam ball
Skewers
Small round candies

Instructions

- 1
  Obtain a large Styrofoam ball. The ball should have a diameter of at least three inches. This ball represents the nucleus of the atom.
- 2
  Press the dull end of each skewer stick into the Styrofoam ball. Arrange the sticks so that they are distributed evenly around the ball.
- 3
  Obtain several pieces of candy. Pick candy that is relatively soft and that you can easily push onto a skewer. Small chocolate balls or small marshmallows are a good choice.
- 4
  Push one piece of candy onto the sharp end of each skewer sticking out of the Styrofoam ball. The candies represent the valence electrons of the atom.

Science