Activity 3: Molecules – Structure, Symmetry Classification and Properties
Introduction
Symmetry considerations alone can precisely predict properties of a molecule
such as whether a permanent dipole moment exists and where it lies on the molecular
framework, chirality and groups of chemically equivalent atoms (or nuclei for NMR).
Additionally, the number and types of energy states that an atom or molecule can have
are rigorously and precisely determined by the symmetry of the molecule or the
symmetry of the environment of the atom. Finally, you can know without any
quantitative calculations whatever, how many energy states there are and what transitions
between them are allowed (for spectroscopic predictions). Symmetry is so powerful, and
in this activity you will gain essential practice so that symmetry will start to become a
useful tool for you.
Learning Objectives
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Be able to visualize the 3-dimensional structure of a molecule and classify its point
symmetry group.
Be able to predict properties dependent upon symmetry such as dipole moment,
presence of enantiomers (chirality) and numbers of chemically equivalent groups.
Success Criteria
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Ability to visualize the 3-dimensional structure of a molecule and classify its point
symmetry group.
Accurate prediction of properties of molecule determined by symmetry
considerations.
Resources
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Lecture and web links on our class ANGEL web site.
Plan presented in this activity.
Figures and templates attached to this activity.
Molecular model kits.
Chapter 3 in Rodgers (Glen E. Rodgers, “Descriptive Inorganic, coordination and
Solid-State Chemistry,” Brooks/Cole, Thompson Learning, USA, 2002, ISBN 0-12592060-1).
Origami models from Robert M. Hanson, “Molecular Origami,” University Science
Books, Sausalito, California, 1995.
Prerequisites
Understanding the following: symmetry operation; symmetry element; point symmetry
group; model building; symmetry classification tree; relation between symmetry and
molecular properties
Activity for Fundamental Inorganic Chemistry contributed by Susan C. Jackels, Seattle University.
Pre-activity assignment: Bring your assembled model to class.
Plan
1. Each person in the class will receive an assigned molecule for this activity. Form
groups of two to collaborate in the completion of this plan.
2. Build from a model kit or origami paper template a faithful model of your
molecule. Check each other’s molecules for accuracy.
3. Follow the “decision tree” hand-out to assign the molecule to the appropriate
point symmetry group. Then answer the following questions:
a. Does the molecule necessarily have a permanent dipole moment? If so,
where does the moment lie on the molecular framework?
b. Is the molecule chiral?
c. How many sets of equivalent atoms exist in this molecule?
4. Prepare a transparency presenting the molecule, its symmetry classification with
the symmetry elements drawn on it, and all parts in question 3 for it.
5. Have your partner critique the presentation and be ready to present it to the class,
using the model to demonstrate the symmetry operations.
Assignments:
1. heptafluorouranate(IV) ion, UF7-3 (see sheet)
2. diborane, B2H6 (see sheet)
3. heptafluoroniobate(V) ion, NbF7-2 (see sheet)
4. Uranyl nitrate ion, UO2(NO3)3- (see sheet)
5. octafluorozirconate(IV) ion, ZrF8-4 (see sheet)
6. diiron nonacarbonyl Fe2(CO)9 (see sheet)
7. B(OH)3 (planar and shaped like a pinwheel)
8. cis-dichlorotetraamine cobalt (III)
9. hexaammine cobalt (III) [Co(NH3)6]+3
10. trans-dichlorotetraaminecobalt(III)
11. cisplatin cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (square planar complex)
12. XeOF4 (see sheet)
13. ethane, staggered (see sheet)
14. SOF4 (see sheet)
Note: for the molecules designated (see sheet), a paper origami model will be
provided in class.
Post activity assignment:
Follow through the activity question 3 for NH2Cl (pyramidal) and [PtCl4]-2 (square
planar).
Activity for Fundamental Inorganic Chemistry contributed by Susan C. Jackels, Seattle University.
See www.ch.ic.ac.uk/local/symmetry for how to use this flow chart.
Activity for Fundamental Inorganic Chemistry contributed by Susan C. Jackels, Seattle University.