Modeling Exercise # 1

This exercise will show you how to download and install the CAChe software on your computer. It will also give you an opportunity to explore the features of the software -- especially the User Interface.

CAChe is software that allows you to build molecules, manipulate them on the screen and compute a vast number of properties.  You can visualize many aspects of bonding and other properties of molecules.  We'll take it slowly.

Begin by downloading the software. For detailed step-by-step instructions, see:   

     http://chemed.chem.pitt.edu/cacc/installcache1.htm

Once you have the software installed, you can begin to explore.  There is a series of on line tutorials which will guide you through the process.  The complete set is quite lengthy and deals with lots of aspects of the software.  Of course, you can do all of them.  But for the moment, your main goal is to become comfortable with the basics.  The easiest way to complete the exercise is to keep your web browser open and the CAChe Workspace.  Move back and forth between the two as you complete the tasks.

For exercise one, work your way through the following modules in the tutorials.

There is a student worksheet for this exercise -- a MSWord document.  You can fill it in using Word and print out the final copy to turn in.  Alternatively, print the worksheet, and fill in the blanks with pen or pencil.

Total Time: 15 to 20 minutes (after you install and download the software).  It will take longer if you spend time exploring.  In this case, exploring is a good thing.  ENJOY!!

Due Date: The assignment is due in class Friday, October 1, 2004.

Final Report: Complete a brief handout.