Table Tennis - Chemical Bonding and VSEPR Theory
Table tennis has long been an event that has been dominated my the Chinese. In fact, the 2012 Olympics saw Chinese olympians sweep all of the medals in the field. This is likely due to their deep understanding of chemical bonding and their famed coach Gilbert Lewis.
In order to become a master table tennis olympian, you will need to master Lewis structures, resonance structures, formal changes, VSEPR Theory, and orbital hybridization. If you can master these topics, then you are sure to emerge victorious with a gold medal. |
Lewis Structures
We have learned a lot about drawing Lewis Structures. In addition to the material that we covered last year, we also talked about expanding Octets, less than full Octets, and charged compounds. Watch the following video to refresh your memory on how to draw these structures.
VSEPR Theory
Lewis structure are 2 dimensional structures that do not accurately describe how molecules orient themselves in a 3 dimensional plane. Valence Shared Electron Pair Repulsion Theory explains how molecules orient themselves across multiple dimensions. The possible shapes and geometries can be seen below
Hybrid Orbitals, Sigma/Pi Bonds, and Resonance
Resonance structures are vitally important to our understanding of how different chemical properties arise within a system. Review your notes and watch the following video to remind yourself about how to draw resonance structures:
Sigma and Pi bonds were the final portion of this topic that we covered. Use the following simulator to help remind you about the important details about sigma and pi bonds. Make sure to focus on whether bonds lie within the same plan!
Dipole Moments and Polarity
Recall, dipoles are created due to a difference in electronegativities. When there is a difference, an unequal pull in electrons results and the molecule takes on partial positive and negative charges. Review your notes on dipole moments and watch the video below:
Practice, Practice, Practice!
The following worksheets will help you practice synthesizing all of the information that will allow for you to become an expert bonding table tennis player!
The Main Event!
Once you fell you have adequately mastered the content, try your hand against the true pros in the sport. NOTE - If you need to retake this FRQ, then you need to see Mr. Astor for a new problem.
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