Crystal Models of Metals and Ionic Compounds Having examined the shapes of individual molecules, we now want to consider how ions, atoms, and molecules arrange themselves relative to one another in solids. Although you may feel a little lost at first, there is a good reason that we consider bonding in solids in lab prior to a discussion in lecture.
Solids are inherently three-dimensional structures.
We have found that you get a much better feel for the arrangement of atoms in a solid if you can first work with a good model kit. The board drawings then just seem to make more sense. Strange as it may seem, we have some very nice kits for you to use in this experiment, kits that will make it easy for you to get the atoms in the correct positions. The TAs will provide instructions on the use of these particular kits when you get into lab. The only special instruction for doing the experiment is to avoid bending the metal rods upon which the balls are threaded.