SME
Inorganic Chemistry
Symmetry and group theory
Use this for “What is the point group of PCl₃?”
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Which point group does the molecule belong to?
Tap a card, then tap its group.
Find the shape first (VSEPR), then its symmetry.
Assumptions
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Find the shape first from VSEPR: lone pairs set the shape but are not drawn on the cards.
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A point group is the set of symmetry operations (axes, planes, a centre) that leave the molecule looking the same.
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Swapping one atom for another breaks symmetry: CH₂Cl₂ and CHCl₃ lose the tetrahedron’s groups.
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