Molecule Building Project
Molecule Building Project
Molecule Building Project
Building Project – AP Chemistry – 50 points
This project will involve selecting and building a molecular model according to the parameters below.
You may work on your own or with one partner (partner teams only build one molecule, but it should be
a larger or more complex molecule that one built by a single person). The project will be graded on
how accurately the requirements below are met, along with craftsmanship and neatness.
Requirements: Once you select your molecular compound you must let me know what it is; duplicate
compounds are not allowed. If you change your mind later let me know as well. Your molecule must
have:
At least 3 different elements, one of which must be carbon
A molar mass of at least 40 g/mole
At least two different hybridizations of the carbon atoms (sp, sp2, or sp3)
Correct RELATIVE sizes of the atoms (H is smaller than C; C, N, and O are the same size)
Correct BOND ANGLES (this is IMPORTANT! It’s not easy making tetrahedral 109.5o
bonds)
Correct RELATIVE bond lengths (a C=C bond should be shorter than a C‐C bond – but
watch out for resonance structures!)
A way to be safely hung from the ceiling
A sign attached to the model that gives the common name (or IUPAC name if there is no
common name), written on both sides, big enough to be readable once the molecule is
hung from the ceiling
Your molecule must also be accompanied by a one‐page sheet which you will turn in to me that gives
the following information:
Your name (and your partner’s if applicable) and period
Your molecule’s molecular formula
Your molecule’s Lewis Structure, including unshared pairs of electrons
Your molecule’s IUPAC (systematic) name and its common name (if it has one)
What your molecule is used for/where it’s found/what it does/ why you picked
it / any significant chemical reaction it undergoes, if applicable
A key that tells which colors correspond to which elements (black = carbon, etc.)
You may need to provide some of your own materials for this project. I will provide Styrofoam balls,
wood skewers, tempera paints, hot glue guns, paintbrushes, fishing line, and hanging hooks. You will be
responsible for any other materials you want to use (glitter, pipe‐cleaners, etc.).
You can work on your projects during class between now and finals week. You can store your materials
in the classroom. The project will be due on THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL (or the Friday before if you’re a
senior).