Creating Blender Animations to Help Students Visualize Organic Chemistry Concepts

Authors

Vasilina Vikareva, DePauw University
Jeffrey Hansen, DePauw University

Files

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

10-1-2025

Abstract

Many students struggle with organic chemistry because they find it difficult to visualize molecular structures and interactions in three dimensions. Concepts like bond rotation for conformational isomers and intermolecular forces require strong spatial imagination, which traditional 2D drawings fail to develop effectively. This spatial visualization deficit contributes significantly to high failure rates and student anxiety in organic chemistry courses, creating a substantial barrier to success in STEM fields. This project aims to solve this problem by creating animations that demonstrate complex chemical concepts in clear, visual ways that enhance student comprehension and retention. The research methodology involves developing a comprehensive library of educational videos using industry-standard software, including ChemDoodle 2D, ChemDoodle 3D for molecular structure creation and Blender for creating advanced animations which are later rendered and edited to final versions of educational materials. These videos will help students gain a deeper understanding of organic chemistry through visualization.

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry Department of DePauw University

Project Mentor

Jeff Hansen

Funding and Acknowledgements

Scientific Research Fellow Program

Recommended Citation

Vikareva, Vasilina and Hansen, Jeffrey, "Creating Blender Animations to Help Students Visualize Organic Chemistry Concepts" (2025). Annual Student Research Poster Session. 207.
https://scholarship.depauw.edu/srfposters/207