[Chemistry Tips] Into the 3D World

Hi student,

Continue on building the chemistry basic instincts.

Molecules are NOT flat, so while you are at the molecular level picture molecules in 3D. See things in the 3D viewpoint. For many, it is not your second nature. What makes it worse is that all textbooks and lecture materials are using 2D structure drawings. It is not hard to train yourself in 3D - constantly remind yourself while reading the textbook and listening to the lectures.

How? In print, you see water presented as H2O or H-O-H. To see it in 3D, use a 3D model. Here is a commonly used Spoke-and-Ball model.

A water molecule is not linear, but bent. Next time you draw a structure on paper, try to picture it in 3D. So far, so good. Now that you can think in 3D, let's promote you to the next level. Remember: Draw in 2D and imagine in 3D.

2D structure drawing is how chemists communicate. Chemists have adapted to representing the 3D structure in the 2D plane in order to convey chemistry clearly and consistently. Your pencil is an indispensable learning tool. Train your hand to draw. Precision in drawing leads to the precision in thinking. Knowing how to draw a structure will give you insight into the solution of the problem.

There is a branch of organic chemistry called stereochemistry, which is the study of the 3D structure of molecules. Even with 3D understanding, chemists still like to project 3D structures into 2D plane, such as Fischer Projection or Newman Projection. Do not ever lose sight of the fact that all structures (geometrical and electronic) are three-dimensional.

To help students with 3D thinking and stereochemistry, I have prepared a video on the topic, go view it now:
http://www.rapidlearningcenter.com/VideoLibrary/Organic/ORGO077_Stereochemistry/player.html

Until next time, student, keep it up!

Committed to Your Success
Wayne Huang, PhD
"The Rapid Learning Coach"
ChemTips@RapidLearningCenter.com

PS: Master chemistry in 24 hours with our rapid learning courses on High School Chemistry, AP or SAT Chemistry, College Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and others. Experience the break-through system and learn chemistry in 24 hours visually. Shoot over our learning portal now - http://www.RapidLearningCenter.com

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