By Iam Jaebi, updated Aug 30 2022
Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all elements. Each element is identified by the arrangement of its protons, neutrons, and electrons. To create a physical model, you need to know the specific counts of these subatomic particles.
Gather 3‑inch balls for protons and neutrons and 1‑inch balls for electrons. The number of balls depends on the element you’re modeling (e.g., one 3‑inch ball for a hydrogen proton and one 1‑inch ball for its electron).
Mark each 3‑inch ball with a “P” for proton or “N” for neutron. Electrons are identified by their smaller size.
Paint protons red, neutrons blue, and electrons yellow. Allow the paint to dry before proceeding.
Cut a 3‑inch piece of wire for each proton and neutron. Insert half of the wire into the ball, leaving the other half protruding.
Arrange the labeled balls into a compact cluster. Use the protruding wires to interlock adjacent balls, forming the nucleus.
Place the nucleus on a flat surface. From a wire spool, pull enough wire to form a loop around the nucleus, leaving a 2‑ to 3‑inch gap between the inner edge of the loop and the nucleus. This loop represents the electron path.
Thread each electron ball onto the loop, sliding it along the wire. Position each electron so that it sits 3 inches from either end of the wire segment.
After all electrons are in place, join the free ends of the wire loop. Overlap the tips by 1‑ to 2‑inches and twist them together with needle‑nose pliers to lock the electrons in place.
Lay the completed electron loop on a flat surface. Cut four additional 3‑inch wire segments and arrange them around the loop at the 12, 3, 6, and 9‑o’clock positions.
Wrap each supporting wire around the loop wire and twist it with pliers. Insert the free tip of each wire into the corresponding nucleus ball, completing the bond. Your atom model is now finished.
