The concept of stereochemistry can often be difficult for students to visualize when first encountering it during organic chemistry. While molecular model kits can provide a wonderful 3-dimensional (3D) and tactile experience, their creation (both initial and subsequent) can take non-insignificant amounts of time – time that could be better spent on the actual exercise. In this presentation, I detail my attempts to use virtual reality (VR) to efficiently and rapidly allow students to interact with stereochemical concepts in a 3D space and manipulate the structures until the student masters the concept. Topics that were covered included: determination of stereocenters, R/S designation, and stereochemical relationships. To gauge the level of success using this VR approach, scores on an exam versus a control group were compared and a survey was administered to the students who made use of VR.

Combining virtual reality and stereochemistry for organic chemistry

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

[Author Benefits](https://scimeetings.acs.org/?utm_source=pubs_content_marketing&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=0320_MCF_NPI_Launch_Spring_Homepage&ref=pubs_content_marketing)

[How to use SciMeetings](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMeetings-ACSSpring2020-HowToGuide_M3020-Final.pdf)

[Frequently Asked Questions](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMtng_ACSNMSp2020_FAQ_M3120_Final.pdf)

ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.