Curated OER
Polymers
High schoolers make polymers in the lab. For this polymers lesson plan, students make a nylon fiber polymer chain. They define monomers, polymers, addition polymerization, condensation polymerization, crosslinking and cyrstallinity.
University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania: Solid State Chemistry: Describing Crystalline Solids
This site contains in-depth information on crystalline solids. Includes basic concepts, pictures, learning graphs, and useful tools.
Michael Blaber, PhD
Florida State University: Intermolecular Forces: Structures of Solids
Article from Michael Blaber and Florida State University. Amorphous and crystalline solids are compared and contrasted. The unit cell arrangements and the packing of unit cells into crystalline solids is explained and colorfully...
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
Magnet Academy: Mag Lab: Image Furnace
Scientists use image furnaces to grow crystals at very high temperatures. A built-in camera allows them to observe in action a delicate process that is equal parts art and science.
Davidson College
Davidson College: Network Solids: Crystalline Solids
Explains the differences between ionic, molecular, metallic, and network crystalline solids. Displays structures for diamond, graphite, fullerene, and silica, accompanied by questions about their chemical bonding. Electron density plots...
Florida State University
Florida State University: Molecular Expressions: Making Crystals
Young scholars will work in groups to grow crystals in different conditions, and then make conclusions about how and why crystals form. A detailed procedure and materials list, follow-up questions, and a teacher's guide that contains...
Science Struck
Science Struck: Crystalline vs. Amorphous Solids: The Difference?
Explains the difference between crystalline and amorphous solids and describes the properties of each.