Symmetry element
Encyclopedia
A symmetry element is a point of reference about which symmetry operation
s can take place. In particular, symmetry elements can be centers of inversion, axes of rotation and mirror planes.
Symmetry operation
In the context of molecular symmetry, a symmetry operation may be defined as a permutation of atoms such that the molecule or crystal is transformed into a state indistinguishable from the starting state....
s can take place. In particular, symmetry elements can be centers of inversion, axes of rotation and mirror planes.
See also
- SymmetrySymmetrySymmetry generally conveys two primary meanings. The first is an imprecise sense of harmonious or aesthetically pleasing proportionality and balance; such that it reflects beauty or perfection...
- Group theoryGroup theoryIn mathematics and abstract algebra, group theory studies the algebraic structures known as groups.The concept of a group is central to abstract algebra: other well-known algebraic structures, such as rings, fields, and vector spaces can all be seen as groups endowed with additional operations and...
- CrystallographyCrystallographyCrystallography is the experimental science of the arrangement of atoms in solids. The word "crystallography" derives from the Greek words crystallon = cold drop / frozen drop, with its meaning extending to all solids with some degree of transparency, and grapho = write.Before the development of...
- Hermann-Mauguin notationHermann-Mauguin notationHermann–Mauguin notation is used to represent the symmetry elements in point groups, plane groups and space groups. It is named after the German crystallographer Carl Hermann and the French mineralogist Charles-Victor Mauguin...
- Schoenflies notationSchoenflies notationThe Schoenflies notation or Schönflies notation, named after the German mathematician Arthur Moritz Schoenflies, is one of two conventions commonly used to describe Point groups. This notation is used in spectroscopy. The other convention is the Hermann–Mauguin notation, also known as the...