Chemical simulation teaching system based on virtual reality and gesture interaction

Background Most existing chemical experiment teaching systems lack solid immersive experiences, making it difficult to engage students. To address these challenges, we propose a chemical simulation teaching system based on virtual reality and gesture interaction. Methods The parameters of the models were obtained through actual investigation, whereby Blender and 3DS MAX were used to model and import these parameters into a physics engine. By establishing an interface for the physics engine, gesture interaction hardware, and virtual reality (VR) helmet, a highly realistic chemical experiment environment was created. Using code script logic, particle systems, as well as other systems, chemical phenomena were simulated. Furthermore, we created an online teaching platform using streaming media and databases to address the problems of distance teaching. Results The proposed system was evaluated against two mainstream products in the market. In the experiments, the proposed system outperformed the other products in terms of fidelity and practicality. Conclusions The proposed system which offers realistic simulations and practicability, can help improve the high school chemistry experimental education.