When using the “ball and stick” drawing method of drawing a compound, which element usually goes in the center of the model?

Answer 1

In the "ball and stick" model of drawing a compound, the element that usually goes in the center of the model is typically the central atom, which is usually the least electronegative element in the molecule. This is often the element that can form the most bonds. In many cases, this is carbon, but it can also be another element depending on the specific compound being represented. For example, in water (H₂O), oxygen is the central atom surrounded by hydrogen atoms.