This applet models the symmetry operations of the group D∞h. Click on the C1 box to see the animation for the operation, a 360 degree rotation (which is equivalent to the identity operation).
Ther are two distinct C2operations, each perpendicular to the other. The C∞ is a infinity-fold rotation, that can not be clearly animated, but picture rotation of each atom about a line passing through its own nucleus. The apparent "lack" of motion in the applet is intentional.
σh is a mirror plane in the plane of the screen - it reflects the top half of each atom into its bottom half. σv is a mirror plane perpendicular to the plane of the screen. Yellow color is used to suggest a reflective glass.
Carbon dioxide is an representative of this group.
© 2003-2011 by Lawrence T. Sein. All rights reserved.
Send questions to: lseinjr@hotmail.com