http://www.ck12.org Chapter 1. Introduction to Physical Science
MEDIA
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URL: http://www.ck12.org/flx/render/embeddedobject/79981MEDIA
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URL: http://www.ck12.org/flx/render/embeddedobject/79982Simple Models in Physical Science
The diagram below is a simple two-dimensional model of a water molecule. This is the smallest particle of water
that still has the properties of water. The model shows that each molecule of water consists of one atom of oxygen
and two atoms of hydrogen.
Q:What else can you learn about water molecules from this model?
A:The model shows the number of atomic particles—protons, neutrons, and electrons—in each type of atom. It
also shows that each hydrogen atom in a water molecule shares its electron with the oxygen atom.
Q:Do you think this water molecule model satisfies the criteria of a useful model? In other words, does it represent
a real water molecule in important ways while being simpler and easier to understand than a real water molecule?
A:The model shows the basic structure of a water molecule and how the atoms in the molecule share electrons.
These features of the water molecule explain important properties of water. The model is also simpler and easier