Organic chemistry students are benefiting from new three-dimensional molecular model kits that they can borrow from the UNLV University Libraries. Multiple sets are on course reserve and available for students to check out. The new models are a result of a collaboration between chemistry professor Jun Yong Kang and STEM librarian Sue Wainscott to help students learn and understand molecular formulas.
“We want students to benefit from studying and learning about molecular structures by seeing them in 3D and being able to turn them over in their hands,” said Wainscott.
The models are sized for concept and portability. Kang recommended the molecular model kit on his organic chemistry syllabus this semester and is encouraging students to use them in the library. Kang said, “The molecular model set enables students to analyze important conformations in organic chemistry such as chair conformation, Newman projection, and anti-peri-planar orientation.”
"Looking at a molecule just on paper makes it really hard to understand. By using the 3D kit from the library, I can build it and understand how the molecule exists in real life,” said junior Macy Dizon.
The molecules join the anatomy models, laptops, graphing calculators, and camcorders that the Libraries make available for student use every day.
If you have an idea for a tool, model or other learning resource that your students would benefit from, contact your liaison librarian to explore the possibilities!
Students can visit the Circulation Desk in Lied Library to borrow a kit.