hi-ce Software: eChem

eChem is a software tool designed to support the learning of chemistry principles by creating virtual, three-dimensional models of molecules. In addition, eChem allows users to simultaneously visualize multiple representations of molecules and compare properties of molecules. Users can compare computationally predicted properties of the molecules they create with properties observed in a laboratory. All views and modules of eChem are linked together, allowing the user to easily switch between various representations of the molecule.

System Requirements:

There are two versions of eChem, either of which is available for Windows or Mac operating systems. The web version requires Internet Explorer 4.0 or later. An application version requires either Mac OS 8.0 or later and Mac OS Runtime for Java, or Windows 95 or later with Internet Explorer 4.0 or later and the latest Java patches and updates.

Note: eChem is no longer in development, and will likely not be updated to accommodate newer operating systems. If you have problems using or installing eChem on your system, you may contact us with questions. However, we no longer support eChem, and we may not be able to provide a solution for your use.

Download eChem:

Select the appropriate installer for your system from the categories below. Installation instructions are given below.

Windows:
Download the installer that includes Java Virtual Machine (VM). After downloading, double-click "eChem_Installer.exe". Follow the instructions on the installer window.

You may download an installer that does not include Java VM. If you use this installer, your computer must have VM software already installed.

Mac OS 7.6.1 or later (not Mac OS X):
Download the installer that includes Java Virtual Machine (VM). After downloading, double-click "eChem_Installer". Follow the instructions on the installer window.

If using the installer without Java VM, you need to have Mac OS Runtime for Java (MRJ) 2.0 or later installed on your computer before installing.

UNIX:
You must already have Java 1.1.4 or later installed. You can download Java here. After downloading the eChem installer for UNIX, type "cd" to the directory where you downloaded the installer. Type "sh Install_eChem.bin"

Solaris SPARC:
Download and double-click on the installer.

Tutorial:

In additional to the general eChem tutorial below are a series of activity sheets, including the introduction of alkanes, IUPAC nomenclature of alkanes and representations of organic compounds. All files are PDF format downloads, requiring a PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader.