Space-filling models

This is a calotte model of cyclohexane. The white spheres represent hydrogen atoms, which surround a ring of carbon atoms (in grey).

Calotte models (also known as space-filling models), like ball-and-stick models, belong to the 3D or spatial molecular models, which serve to display the structure of chemical products and substances or biomolecules.

This calotte model of one of the many isomers of decane illustrates how the 22 hydrogen atoms (white) line the backbone of 10 carbon atoms (grey)

The calotte model is a further development of the ball-and-stick model, with which the configuration of molecules can be vividly presented. With it, the atoms of individual elements are represented by multicolored spherical sections. Atom size, bond angle and bond length correspond to the actual relationships. The result is a clear and (depending on construction materials and execution) flexible model of the molecule. Presentation is also possible using software.

External links

• More on molecular models and a couple of examples from chemistry and biology (article is in German)