Chapter U2.9, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Difference between a structural formula and a ball-and-stick model must be explained.

Concept introduction:

A structural formula of a molecule is the representation in which arrangements of atoms are shown. A ball-and-stick model is the representation of a molecule in which atoms are represented as ball(sphere) and bonds are shown as sticks.

Answer to Problem 1E

A ball-and-stick model is more clear representation of a molecule than a structural formula.

Explanation of Solution

In a structural formula all the atoms are shown in a similar way and all bond lengths are also shown in the same way. But in ball-and-stick model different atoms are shown as spherical ball which are according to their relative sizes. Similarly, the lengths of sticks represents the relative bond lengths between two participating atoms. The bending of bonds is also shown clearly due o the lone pair-bond pair repulsions.

The spheres represneting atoms have different color codes for example, C is black, O is red, H is white, etc.

Conclusion

A ball-and-stick model is more detailed representation of a molecule as compared to structural formula.