The Structure of Matter unit teaches basic concepts and theories used in the description of the structure of atoms and molecules, whose properties are determined by electrons. Therefore, emphasis is placed on the electronic structure of atoms and molecules, and ideas from quantum mechanics. The nature of the chemical bond between the atoms as well as the molecular structure are just as important, as they also determine the properties of substances. Some of the material’s properties are explained, such as why different materials and substances have color and why others, under certain conditions, can glow, what makes a substance capable of conducting an electric current, or what determines magnetic properties.

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“Solutions of the same substance in a different solvent are shown. The nature of the solvent has a visible effect on the properties of the substances, changing the solutions’ color. The concept is called solvatochromism.”