MODELAGEM DE LIGAÇÕES QUÍMICAS ATRAVÉS DO OSCILADOR HARMÔNICO SIMPLES PARA ALUNOS DO 2º ANO DO ENSINO MÉDIO

Abstract

Oscillations are phenomena present in nature, manifesting in a wide range of situations. They can be observed in physical, biological, and chemical systems, playing a crucial role in many natural and technological processes. In basic education, the topic of oscillations is often presented only in the context of mass-spring systems and simple pendulums. While these examples are fundamental for introducing the basic concepts of harmonic motion, they represent only a fraction of the oscillations that occur in nature. However, oscillations can be taught using other examples, such as molecular oscillations, making classes more interesting and engaging. Using the Avogadro software, students can build molecular models and visualize the vibrational energies and the distances between atoms in these molecules. The program allows for the simulation and analysis of oscillations in different molecules, providing a visual and interactive understanding of molecular phenomena. The Desmos software was also used for curve fitting ( of energy and atomic distance in the molecule) to determine the spring constant 𝑘 of the studied molecules and to deepen the topic of oscillations. This not only reinforces the understanding of theoretical concepts but also introduces data analysis and visualization tools, which are valuable skills in various scientific fields. To this end, the purpose of this work was to develop a manual for applying these studies of molecular oscillations (using Avogadro and Desmos) for second-year high school students. It aims to provide a stepby-step guide for teachers and students, facilitating the integration of these digital tools into waverelated lessons and promoting more dynamic and engaging learning. The educational product resulted in a manual on molecular vibration studies using the Avogadro and Desmos programs, based on David Ausubel’s theory of meaningful learning, enabling a more dynamic pedagogical practice with students. By addressing the study of molecular oscillations in the classroom, we show students that this phenomenon can also occur on much smaller scales compared to the macroscopic world. In doing so, we aim to promote deeper and more contextualized learning, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of scientific phenomena.