This applet models the symmetry operations of the group D2h. Click on the C1 box to see the animation for the operation, a 360 degree rotation (which is equivalent to the identity operation).
The C2 is a 2-fold (180 degree) rotation. There are three such rotations, about the z, x or y axes. The plane of the computer screen is the xy-plane
The σ's are each mirror planes, in the xy-, xz-, or yz- planes. Yellow color is used to suggest a reflective glass.
There is also an i (center of inversion) in the group D2h; clicking on the i button will display the center of inversion and demonstrate the inversion operation.
© 2003-2011 by Lawrence T. Sein. All rights reserved.
Send questions to: lseinjr@hotmail.com