Build a molecule PhET
Getting started
1. Go to https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/build-a-molecule
2. Click on Download, then if a warning appears, click on Keep (not Discard)
3. Run the build-a-molecule_en.jar file
Make Molecules
4. Make the molecules that are listed in Collection 1, then click on the 3D next to each molecule. You can
find more atoms by collecting them from different kits, which can be found using the Kit #1 button.
5. Use the Snipping Tool program to take a picture of the molecule
6. Enter the picture and information into the table below. Highlight text and use the shortcut Ctrl+= to
make them subscript.
7. Make each of the molecules of Collection 1 and enter them into the table.
(Hint: some molecules will have different names if the atoms are arranged in different ways.)
Extension
8. Go to the Make Multiple tab and complete the molecules in the collections. Add 5 of your favourite
molecules to the table below.
Paste in extra rows if you need them.
9. Go to the Larger Molecules tab and make the biggest molecule you can. Add it to the table below.
Number of
Elements
Name of
Molecular
Element or
Molecule picture
atoms in
present in
molecule
formula
compound?
molecule
molecule
Water
Oxygen
Hydrogen
Carbon
dioxide
Nitrogen
H2O
3
Hydrogen
Oxygen
Compound