Octahedral Models of Complex Particles

Problem Structural models are useful in order to raise the clarity in the discussion of complex structures and to develop mental models in the cognitive structure of students. Students should build the models first then, they could draw them in perspective. In addition, simple cardboard octahedrons or tetrahedrons could be used. Structural models could also demonstrate the central particle with the help of molecular building sets. The octahedron, especially, serves the purpose of demonstrating the octahedral structure of [Cu(H20)6]2 + and [Ni(NH3)6]2+ (see E9.7), respectively [Co(NH3)6]2 + (see E9.8). 

Material Cardboard and glue, Styrofoam ball (d = 10 cm) and Styrofoam glue, 6 small magnets, molecular building set (similar to the Phywe System). 

Observation The models show complex structures of the coordination numbers 4 (tetrahedron) and 6 (octahedron). 

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