Study the models shown in the picture. The models were all made using the same model kit. The methane model and the oxygen model are both complete and correct. In the carbon dioxide model, one atom is incorrectly represented with a blue sphere.

Question

a. Think about the models shown above. What colors are used to represent the different elements?

(3 points)
The white spheres represent
atoms. The red spheres represent
atoms. The grey spheres represent
atoms.
Question 2

Keep thinking about the models shown above, and consider which elements are represented by which colors.

b. What color should the blue atom actually be?

(1 point)
Responses

white
white

black
black

red
red

grey

Answer 1

Based on the information provided in your question regarding the models made from the same model kit, the following color representations for the different elements can be inferred:

a.

• The white spheres represent hydrogen atoms.
• The red spheres represent oxygen atoms.
• The grey spheres represent carbon atoms.

b. The blue atom in the carbon dioxide model should actually be represented by a grey sphere instead, representing carbon.