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Concept
Symmetry operation
Summary
In group theory, geometry, representation theory and molecular geometry, a symmetry operation is a geometric transformation of an object that leaves the object looking the same after it has been carried out. For example, as transformations of an object in space, rotations, reflections and inversions are all symmetry operations. Such symmetry operations are performed with respect to symmetry elements (for example, a point, line or plane). In the context of molecular symmetry, a symmetry operation is a permutation of atoms such that the molecule or crystal is transformed into a state indistinguishable from the starting state.
Two basic facts follow from this definition, which emphasizes its usefulness.
Physical properties must be invariant with respect to symmetry operations.
Symmetry operations can be collected together in groups which are isomorphic to permutation groups.
In the context of molecular symmetry, quantum wavefunctions need not be invariant, because the operation can multiply them by a phase or mix states within a degenerate representation, without affecting any physical property.
The identity operation corresponds to doing nothing to the object. Because every molecule is indistinguishable from itself if nothing is done to it, every object possesses at least the identity operation. The identity operation is denoted by E or I. In the identity operation, no change can be observed for the molecule. Even the most asymmetric molecule possesses the identity operation. The need for such an identity operation arises from the mathematical requirements of group theory.
The reflection operation is carried out with respect to symmetry elements known as planes of symmetry or mirror planes. Each such plane is denoted as σ (sigma). Its orientation relative to the principal axis of the molecule is indicated by a subscript. The plane must pass through the molecule and cannot be completely outside it.
If the plane of symmetry contains the principal axis of the molecule (i.e.
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