Three Dimensional Structures
Organic chemistry is a three-dimensional science. The
shape of a molecules helps determine both its physical and chemical properties.
Therefore it is very important to be able to visualize the three-dimensional
shapes of the molecules shown in the text, even though they are drawn on
a two-dimensional sheet of paper. Most beginning students have some difficulty
with this aspect of organic chemistry. It is best to start by building
real models of some of the molecules with a model set. After some work
with models, it is easier to see them in three dimensions on paper. There
are pictures of three-dimensional models of many molecules in the text,
but, even after working with a model set, is it often still difficult
to actually visualize these molecules in three dimensions. Computers can
be of great assistance with this task. A computer-generated model can be
turned and viewed from a variety of perspectives, which makes the visualization
of the three-dimensional structure of the molecule much easier.
Models of all of the molecules in the text for which
a three-dimensional view is important are available here. These models
are colored the same as the pictures in the text, so you can readily identify
the structures. You can rotate the model using your mouse by holding down
the left button. By clicking the right mouse button, you can access a menu
to change the display style. Click on DISPLAY and then choose the type
of model that you want. You can also enlarge or shrink a structure by using
the mouse and the shift key.
The models are arranged according to the chapter
in which they appear. Click on the links below to access the models available
for each chapter.