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You are here: Symmetry & Point Groups » Symmetry Operations » Improper Rotation


Symmetry Operations

Rotation-reflection, Improper axis (Sn)


This is a compound operation combining a rotation (Cn) with a reflection through a plane perpendicular to the Cn axis σh.(Cn followed by σh)

σCn=Sn


Examples:


In this first example we do two improper rotations one after the other. Notice that 2 S4 = 1 C2


2 S4 = 1 C2


Rotation AngleSymmetry Operation
90°S4
180°C2(=2S4)Above example
270°3S4
360°E(=4S4)

Try it and see !! S2 = i

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BF3 Boron Trifluoride


Can you see the S3?
Click to see in details

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C6H6


Mouse over to see S3 & S6

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CH4


3S4 axes. No C4 !!
[Draw the molecule with C in the center and
H's on appropriate vertices.]
Like below:


example of s4 rotation
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molecule image for decoration
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