What is high molecular symmetry and low molecular symmetry and give examples of both please
High molecular symmetry and low molecular symmetry refer to the arrangement of atoms or groups of atoms in a molecule. It describes the overall shape and symmetry of the molecule.
High molecular symmetry is characterized by a regular and symmetric arrangement of atoms or groups of atoms around a central point. This usually occurs when a molecule has a high degree of symmetry, meaning there are multiple planes of symmetry within the molecule. In high molecular symmetry, the atoms or groups of atoms tend to be located at equal distances from the central point, resulting in a well-defined shape.
Example: Benzene (C₆H₆) is an example of a molecule with high molecular symmetry. It consists of six carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal ring, with each carbon atom connected to a hydrogen atom. The molecule has multiple planes of symmetry, which results in its symmetrical and planar shape.
Low molecular symmetry, on the other hand, refers to a molecule that lacks a high degree of symmetry. In these molecules, the atoms or groups of atoms are not evenly distributed around a central point, leading to an irregular shape. Low molecular symmetry molecules may still have some elements of symmetry, but their overall symmetry is lower compared to high molecular symmetry.
Example: Propanal (C₃H₆O) is an example of a molecule with low molecular symmetry. It consists of three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. The arrangement of atoms in propanal results in an asymmetrical shape without any planes of symmetry.
To determine the molecular symmetry of a molecule, advanced techniques such as point group analysis or molecular visualization software can be used. These methods involve considering the arrangement of atoms, bond angles, and the presence of symmetry elements like planes of symmetry, rotation axes, or centers of symmetry within the molecule.