The structure of an atom, characterized by a nucleus with protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons, can be illustrated in PowerPoint. A schematic of an atom can be drawn directly in PowerPoint, or a different file format can be imported directly into a presentation. Such illustrations help students visualize things that cannot be observed directly in the real world.
Atomic orbitals are mathematical functions representing the wave-like behavior of electrons around a nucleus in an atom. The four orbitals are named s, p, d and f, and are used to characterize orbital shape. The three-dimensional shapes of these orbitals can be illustrated using PowerPoint, and the animation capabilities can be used to convey the motion of electrons in the orbitals.
Stoichiometric equations represent the relationship between reactants and products in chemical equations. Balancing chemical equations is a skill taught in basic chemistry, and often requires considerable practice by students. PowerPoint can be used to present chemical equations to a large number of students, and animation can be used so an entire class can participate in the steps required to balance an equation.
Organic molecules are, by definition, composed of carbon. Beginning students of organic chemistry often have difficulty visualizing the complex three-dimensional structures of organic molecules. This is especially true when two molecules have the same chemical formula, but different bonding or branching patterns. PowerPoint is especially useful when illustrating such complex concepts as stereoisomerism.