MoleculAR vs Molecular Workbench

MoleculAR is a free augmented-reality app for chemistry learning on Android and iOS. Users scan QR codes to open three-dimensional models of molecules, molecular geometries, and orbitals, then rotate and zoom them for different views. The app focuses on VSEPR molecular geometry and visualizing complicated molecules. A downloadable QR library provides available structures at no cost. Its reference includes molecules, s, p, d, and f orbitals, plus animations for Newman projection, the SN2 reaction, and ring flip. The maker describes MoleculAR for students and educators in chemistry education and accepts feedback or requests for new molecules by email. The privacy policy says the app does not collect data, while third-party services may collect identifying information. Error logs may include an IP address, device name, operating-system version, and usage date and time. The service does not address individuals under age 13.

Molecular Workbench is a free modeling tool for designing and conducting computational experiments across science. Its interactive learning environment supports science inquiry, while its authoring system lets instructional designers create and publish curriculum based on models and simulations. Users can customize simulations or create their own, with topics spanning gas laws, fluid mechanics, states of matter, chemical reactions, genetics, protein synthesis, and quantum phenomena. Activities can include assessments, student-data collection, learning monitoring, and teacher feedback. Simulations can also be embedded in blogs, wikis, or web pages. The Next-Generation Molecular Workbench brings computational experiments to browsers using HTML5. An offline version is available, but it cannot access the latest simulations or collect student data. Downloads are listed for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux, and require Java Runtime Environment 1.5 or later. The maker says the software needs considerable computing power and may start slowly while the Java virtual machine launches. Molecular Workbench is developed and maintained by the Concord Consortium.