(OPEN INQUIRY LAB Gren
Repulsion Compulsion
In this lab, you will design and construct @ method for modeling molecular
geometry tat illustrates how molecules form linear, tigonal-planar, and
tetrahedral shapes
PURPOSE
‘Show how the hybrid orbitals of shared and unshared valence electron pairs
determine the three-dimensional structure of simple mlecules,
OBJECTIVES.
Design a method of communicating through a 3D representation how the orbit.
sharing qualities of hybrid molecules determine ther sucture.
dontity simple molecules whose structures are determined by hybridization,
Construct models of molecules in linea, trigonal-planct, and tetrahedral shapes
‘that illustrate their hybrid orbitals,
‘Communicate to other students your method of identifying the elements of
hybridization, and show how they affect the shape of the molecules.
PRIOR KNOWLEDGE
Covalent bonds, valence orbitals, hybrid orbitals, VSEPR theory, Lewis structures
POSSIBLE MATERIALS
+ art paper (colored)
+ balloons
+ cardboard pieces
+ clay (assorted colors)
+ glue
+ gummy bears
+ markers (assorted colors)
+ modeling clay
+ paper
+ polystyrene foam balls (atleast two sizes)
+ protractor
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Repulsion Compulsion continued
+ tape (masking or transparent)
+ toothpicks
+ utility knife
+ wood skewers
Optional Materials
+ other realy available material ifthe teacher is able t supply it
BACKGROUND
“The properties of « molecule are influenced by the way the atoms are arranged in
space. That arrangement is determined by the polarity of the atoms and the bonds
they form. Pairs of valence electrons of an atom in a molecule repel pairs of
valence electrons in ther atoms. Therefore, the three-dimensional structure of a
‘molecule results from the pairs arranging themselves afar apart as possible. Both
shared electron in covalent bonds and unshured electrons influence the structure.
In fac, unshared electton pairs repel with even greater force.
‘This theory of valence-shell,electron-pair repulsion is called VSEPR, Along with
sn understanding ofthe Lewis structure of a molecule, VSEPR can be used to
predict the molecule’s 3D structure. Any unshared eleczon pairs identified by the
Lewis structure can be included as orbitals to create a model of a corresponding
molecule.
“The three-dimensional structure of a molecule becomes complicated when the
valence electron pairs of an atom occupy different orbitals that are similar
‘energy. Hybrid orbitals are formed at an energy level between the two similar
‘energy levels. The numberof hybrid orbitals formed is equal to the combined
‘numberof valence electron orbitals, unpaired orbitals, and empty orbitals ofa
molecule,
‘A three-dimensional model that illustrates a molecule including hybridization
‘would need to identify shared and unshared valence electron pairs, and in some
‘cases empty orbitals, to fully explain the structure. Such models ean become very
‘complex, but simple sp orbital hybrids can be modeled o deseribe why the
‘molecule is linear, trigonal-planar, or terahedral in shave
sae OD
+ Always be careful when working with sharp tools, such asa knife or scissors.
PROCEDURE
|. Discuss with group members methods of illustrating all ofthe factors that
‘determine molecular structure. Also discuss how the models could be
‘constructed best in three dimensions. Decide on a method.
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Repulsion Compulsion continued
2. Choose the molecules you will build to represent the three different shapes.
3. Write out your strategy for identifying the important components you want to
display and for communicating how they influence the shapes of your models:
+ Seleet the materials you will need for your models from those that your
teacher has provided,
+ Develop a key that describes what is represented by each physical
‘component of your models.
+ Ifyou would like to use other materials that you think are readily available,
ask your teacher i they ean be provided.
+ Decide how you will present the models and explain them to other students
4. Have your teacher approve your plan,
5, Obtain the necessary materials and build your models.
6, Bvaluate how well your modes illustrate the shapeof the molecules and the
‘way they are structed.
7. Make revisions to improve your models, iftime allows.
8, Develop a S-minute group presentation forthe class to demonsrate the models
and explain how the models illustrate hybridization
CLEANUP AND DISPOSAL
‘Clean all apparatus, Return equipment to its proper location. Dismantle models
and dispose of theie parts according to your teachers instructions. Carefully clean
luc, tape, or other sticky material from work surfaces. Clear away small scraps of
paper, clay, foam, or other debris. Wash your hands thoroughly afterall work is
finished and before you leave the lab.
ANALYSIS
|. Comparing Structures For each of your models, how did the hybrid orbitals
determine ther structure?
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2. Recognizing Patterns How did Lewis structures help you construct 3D models
‘of hybrid orbital molecules?
‘CONCLUSIONS:
1. Drawing Conclusions Which valence electron orbitals combined to produce
hybrid orbitals in each of your models?
2
Evaluating Models How appropriate were your models for demonstrating the
hybridized molecules? Explain how your models demonstrated hybridized
structure well and how they fll short of accurate modeling.
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