Symmetry Elements

Abstract

This activity is meant as an introduction to symmetry elements for an undergraduate course in Inorganic Chemistry. By the end of this activity students should be able to describe the difference between symmetry elements and operations, identify common symmetry elements in objects, and find the principal rotation axis and determine the order of rotation axes.

Level: Undergraduate
Setting: Classroom
Activity Type: Learning Cycle
Discipline: Chemistry
Course: Inorganic Chemistry
Keywords: Symmetry element, symmetry operation, mirror plane, rotation axis, inversion center, reflection, principal rotation axis