How to Make a Model of Hydrogen

Atom Graphic Representation

Hydrogen is the first element on the periodic table as it is the simplest. A hydrogen atom has only one proton and one electron. Hydrogen gas is the major component in our sun. As the hydrogen atoms in the sun combine with each other to create helium radiant energy is released. Hydrogen gas is not found alone on earth, as it is so light it rises quickly out of the atmosphere. Hydrogen can be found in a compound with other elements such as oxygen and carbon. A model of this simple atom can be created with craft items.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard sheet
• Two straws
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Craft wire
• Wire cutters
• White clay -- ½ cup
• Gray Clay - 1 cup
• Small red bead

Instructions

Hydrogen Atom Model

1. Lay a first straw horizontally on the cardboard. Measure out two inches from each end. Mark the spot with a pencil. Turn the straw 90 degrees and repeat. Use a wire to make a circle large enough to touch the four spots marked on the cardboard. Add six inches to the length of wire before cutting it. Set the wire and straw aside.

2. Make a small ball of white clay with your hands. Place the ball on the center of the cardboard sheet and press firmly into place. Place a straw vertically in the center of the clay and press into the clay so it stands freely. Make a round ball of gray clay in your hands. Insert a second straw through the middle of the ball of gray clay so the ball is in the center of the second straw. Place the gray ball of clay on top of the vertical straw. Press these together so a horizontal straw stands on top of the vertical straw. The gray ball is the nucleus of the atom. Glue as necessary.

3. Bend one end of the wire two inches from the end. Insert the bent end into the center of the horizontal straw so that one-fourth inch remains outside. Thread a red bead onto the wire. Shape the wire into a circle so it goes around the horizontal straw but does not touch it. Bend the opposite side of the wire two inches from that end. Insert the second end into the horizontal straw so it is even with the other side. Insert clay into the inside of the horizontal straw to help hold the wire in place. The wire is the orbit of the electron. The red bead is the electron. The orbit of the electron does not need to be horizontal.

Tips & Warnings

• A wooden dowel can be used to replace the vertical straw if the straw is not strong enough to hold the weight of the model. Use a bead that is small enough that its weight doesn't bend the to the wire too much.

References

• History for Kids: Hydrogen
• U.S. Energy Information Administration: Hydrogen