NOTE
Reading edition
AFTER trials of many ways of making models of atomic structure and of many substances I find that two have real merits:—
Balls representing the atoms may be made of hard dentists’ wax, which softens in boiling water and can then be pressed into proper shape in metal molds made for the purpose, just as we used to remake our golf balls in the old days. The spherical mold is made in two halves; and it is convenient to mount them in the lathe, one on the head and one on the back center. Small balls harden at once, and can be made very quickly: larger balls must be left a little while in the mold. The hard wax can be drilled without becoming softened and deformed by the heat generated in drilling. The models made of the wax are very finished in appearance, and will stand all ordinary temperatures. The wax is rather costly.
Gramophone needles make good connectors, the balls, wax or wood, being drilled to receive them. The holes should be drilled true and in correct position. Convenient little contrivances can be made to be used for this purpose on the lathe.
THE END