Molecular point-group gallery

Browse models by symmetry family, then rotate and zoom them directly in 3D to inspect molecular symmetry elements.

Read point groups from geometry.
Use point groups to understand orbitals and vibrations.

01 / POINT-GROUP GALLERY

Point groups and molecular models

Choose a point-group family and a model on the left. Drag to rotate; use a scroll wheel or trackpad to zoom. Provenance and structural notes appear on the right.

TETRAHEDRAL / Td

Methane

Loading 3D structure

Drag to rotate Scroll to zoom Double-click to reset

Public structure Idealised teaching structure

Idealised structures are used to make a given symmetry clear. A real molecule can have a different instantaneous point group in the solid state, in solution, or in another conformation.

The interactive catalogue retains its original Chinese names and teaching annotations. Symmetry notation and all 3D controls are identical in both modes.

02 / CRYSTAL POINT-GROUP ATLAS

The 32 crystallographic point groups

The seven crystal systems together contain every point group allowed in three-dimensional crystallography. Select an international Hermann-Mauguin symbol to compare its Schoenflies notation, Laue class, and principal symmetry elements.

CUBIC / Cubic system

Rock salt structure

SUPER CELL

Unit-cell divisions

3 × 3 × 3 supercell

03 / STUDY ROUTE

From models to character tables

First identify an operation set from 3D structure, then organize operations into conjugacy classes before proceeding to irreducible representations, vibrational modes, and orbital symmetry.

1

Find the principal axis

Start with the highest-order C_n axis.

2

Check perpendicular C₂

Distinguish C_n from D_n.

3

Check mirrors and inversion

Determine h, v, d, i, and S_n.

4

Match the point group

Then connect it to character tables and selection rules.