Team Work.

Create a Concept Map Visualize the relationships between the following key concepts (Choose anyone): Atom, Element, Compound; Molecule, Ion (Cation & Anion); Proton, Neutron, Electron; Atomic Number, Mass Number Your creation must: Clearly show how these terms are connected (e.g., "An atom loses electrons to form a cation"). Include at least one specific example for each of the following: a neutral atom, a cation, an anion, a molecular element, a molecular compound, and an ionic compound (e.g., Na, Na⁺, Cl⁻, O₂, H₂O, NaCl). Be digitally or hand-drawn with clarity and creativity.

The Frontier – Communication & Synthesis (High Challenge) 

Topic A: The Artificial Leaf. Explain how scientists are using molecules and catalytic processes to mimic photosynthesis. Focus on the specific molecules involved (e.g., water H₂O, carbon dioxide CO₂) and how they are split and rearranged into new molecules (e.g., oxygen O₂, fuels like methanol). Why is mastering this molecular rearrangement a "game-changer"?

Topic B: The Post-Lithium Ion Battery. Argue for the need to discover new ions (e.g., sodium Na⁺, magnesium Mg²⁺, or aluminum Al³⁺) to replace lithium ions (Li⁺) in batteries. Explain how the size and charge of these ions influence their ability to store energy and move between the battery's electrodes. Why is the chemistry of ions central to solving our energy storage problems?