Quantum Mechanical Model of the Atom
3C
The Bohr model of the atom was the best model at the time; however, an improved model was developed. The quantum mechanical model filled in the gaps that could not be addressed by the Bohr model. Schrodinger, an Austrian physicist, proposed that the electron had wave properties. The quantum mechanical model is a theory based on the calculation of probabilities for the location of electrons.
Hook:
Electrons are placed in orbitals rather than having firm orbits. The teacher can either use actual balloons to display the orientation of electron orbitals, or show a YouTube video. Obviously, an actual balloon model would be preferred.
Action:
Teacher goes over the major concepts of Schrodinger’s standing wave goes over how the wavelength of a standing wave can be different. Students are then given the balloons, and must show how electron orbital densities can change based on the element.
Consolidation:
KWL (Know, Want, Learn) about what they have learned about the quantum mechanical model. By this point, the students have been given some instruction about quantum ideas. Also, they should have more questions about more complex subjects. This gives the teacher a chance to see where the students are as a group.