January 1, 2016 (Vol. 36, No. 1)
Rating:
Strong Points: Guided exercise, many sample molecules
Weak Points: None
Platform:
iPad
Cost:
$3.99
Summary:
Some concepts—like the difference between single, double, triple bonds—are best explored in a visual way, and the ODYSSEY Multiple Bonds and Resonance app provides a nice way to do so via virtual 3D molecular models. The app includes a collection of molecules with different types of chemical bonds (including examples of resonance) as “reference data” for app users to explore. To guide that exploration, the app includes a series of directions and questions under the “observe” section that introduce users to specific concepts. The app also includes a glossary of key terms. Multiple viewing options are available for the molecules, such as displaying or hiding the electron cloud. Overall the app provides a nice guided exercise for students to explore key concepts related to chemical bonds.
