Computer-assisted learning of chemical experiments through a 3D virtual lab

A model for the development of virtual chemical experiments is proposed in this paper. The model is named E(V)=M+m -Experiment (Virtual) = Materials + method- and is based on the definition of chemical experiments through the use of a set of materials which are manipulated following a method or protocol. The proposed E(V)=M+m model has been implemented in a multimedia system, which is executed through a Web standard browser. The system developed allows the representation and subsequent building of chemistry experiments in virtual 3D worlds to any degree of complexity. This system integrates three main components: a complex object-relational database storing any kind of information relationship with the experiments (e.g. chemical substances, materials, apparatus, etc.), a VRML browser in charged to visualize the experiments, and a Java interface which is in charged to communicate the database with the 3D browser and the user.