Atomic Orbital Shapes Demonstration

Presenter: Caroline Zeliger

Co-Presenter(s):
Peyton Crawford

Presenter Status: Undergraduate student

Academic Year: 22-23

Semester: Spring

Department: Chemistry

Abstract:
Atoms are so small that we cannot see them with the naked eye. It can be difficult for students to conceptualize something that feels so abstract. This demonstration of atomic orbital shapes is worth doing while teaching The Quantum Numbers and Atomic Orbitals section in general chemistry because it gives students the opportunity to see atomic orbitals shapes. Students having the ability to visually observe the behavior of atomic orbitals can help them better comprehend and understand atomic structures. This poster explores a service learning project in which students were instructed to create a demonstration packet for the university in order to encourage more demonstrations to be included in general chemistry classes. By allowing the students to participate in the activity, they are able to get the benefits of hands-on learning. With the low cost and simplicity, this demo can be implemented into any general chemistry curriculum with ease.