Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We introduce a pedagogical approach to teaching structural chemistry in which students at all academic levels obtain .cif files from readily accessible crystal structure databases, print the corresponding structures using a 3D printer, and visualize the molecules within a virtual platform to acquire a full 360° view of the molecules. This engaging, active learning in-class activity enhances students' understanding of key topics in a chemistry curriculum, such as coordination chemistry, symmetry elements, aromaticity, conjugation, crystallography, and many other topics that are often challenging to grasp using traditional one-dimensional tools ( e.g. , chemical formulas in lecture notes) or two-dimensional representations ( e.g. , textbook diagrams, PowerPoint presentations, or whiteboard drawings).
Authors: Dilek K. Dogutan, Meghan G. Sullivan, Christina Wolfskill
Institution: Harvard University
Language: English
Subfield: Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $500
OpenAlex ID: W4414112589