How does one draw Lewis structures on the computer?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on creating Lewis structures using LaTeX, specifically mentioning the use of Textify for rendering 1D structures. Users express a need for tools that can facilitate the drawing of 2D Lewis structures, with examples provided for various chemical compounds. The conversation highlights the limitations of current methods and seeks advice on effective techniques for visual representation, particularly for complex molecules like BF4.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with LaTeX typesetting
  • Understanding of Lewis structures in chemistry
  • Basic knowledge of chemical notation
  • Experience with graphic design tools for scientific illustrations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research LaTeX packages for chemical drawings, such as TikZ or Chemfig
  • Explore software options for chemical structure visualization, like ChemDraw
  • Learn how to create 2D chemical diagrams using Inkscape
  • Investigate online platforms for collaborative chemistry drawing, such as MolView
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and researchers looking to enhance their ability to create and present Lewis structures effectively using digital tools.

Banaticus
Messages
32
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Is there some sort of Latex that allows one to draw Lewis structures on the computer?

The Attempt at a Solution


The following code works in Textify: http://www.texify.com/links.php but not here, apparently. Anyway, I can make 1D Lewis structures (every element in a line). I have no idea how I'd go about making 2D structures.

\text{Mg:O\limits_{.\,.}^{.\,.}:}

\text{[:{Cl}\limits_{.\,.}^{.\,.}]^+[:O\limits_{.\,.}^{.\,.}:]^{2-}[:{Cl}\limits_{.\,.}^{.\,.}:]^+} \\

\text{[:O\limits_{.\,.}^{.\,.}-N\limits_{}^{.}=O\limits_{}^{.\,.}:]^+} \\

\text{[:S\limits_{}^{.\,.}-C=N\limits_{}^{.\,.}:]^-}

How would one go about drawing, say BF4?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
So, when the rest of you are making Lewis structures for homework, a lab report or a lab writeup, how do the rest of you format them? Should I break out Windows Paint?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
7K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K