Applied Chemistry Education

In chemical science, simulations at the level of the smallest particles are a widely used method for investigating chemical processes and substance properties. Similarly, particle simulations can be used to gain knowledge in chemistry classes. They allow learners to gain insight into submicroscopic processes that are beyond human perception. Consideration of simulations in chemistry classes also demonstrates to learners that such methods are a regular part of the subject of chemistry.

Details: https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/acf086 and (in German) https://doi.org/10.25926/c93g-xn66

Beyond the chemical content, dealing with the development or processing of a simulation contributes to an overarching topic that is described by the term computational thinking. This involves the acquisition of skills and abilities to implement processes in a structured manner, ultimately with the goal of being able to read and write computer codes. This can be used as a method or supporting framework to implement chemical content in simulations and thus treat this content in chemistry classes in depth.