Identifying Symmetry Elements and Point Groups of Molecules

Symmetry Elements and Point Groups

For each of the following compounds, identify and count all the symmetry elements (written in their abbreviated form, e.g. benzene has 1 C6, 1 sh, 3 C2, 3C2’, …) and use the flowchart to determine the point group.

(i)

Eclipsed form of cobaltocene (CoCp2)

(ii) Trifluoromethane (CHF3)

(iii) Gauche conformation of the rocket fuel hydrazine (N2H4)

2. For each of the following point groups, draw 1 chemically known molecule that belongs to it. If necessary, draw out the exact conformation.

(i)

D4d

(ii) C6h

(iii) C3