The prepared sets of models are well-suited to teaching molecular structure and symmetry, for showing differences between idealized and real molecules, for explaining crystallographic and noncrystallographic symmetry, and for showing conformational flexibility. Simultaneous employment of all the mentioned resources actuates both visual and haptic perception, and their complementary action enhances the effectiveness of teaching and students’ engagement.

The use of such models for teaching in classrooms along with idealized ball-and-stick models and computer software is encouraged.

This allows teachers to save time on searching for relevant examples and to acquire tangible models of molecules even in the absence of freely available 3D-printing facilities. Sets of models of molecules (which are of interest for teaching molecular structure, symmetry, and related topics in many chemical disciplines) were prepared and made available either for self-directed 3D-printing or through the 3D-printing company Shapeways providing 3D-printing as a service.

2d structures in crystalmaker