Understanding Reflection Planes in Diatomic Molecules

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the concept of reflection planes in diatomic molecules, specifically nitrogen (N2), as described in Walter A. Harrison's "Applied Quantum Mechanics." Reflection planes σx, σy, and σz are crucial for understanding molecular orbitals, which can be classified as even or odd under these reflections. The relevance of this classification is emphasized in the context of molecular symmetry and its implications for quantum mechanics. A resource for visualizing reflection in benzene is also provided, though it did not clarify the original query.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of molecular symmetry and its significance in quantum mechanics.
  • Familiarity with diatomic molecules and their electronic structures.
  • Knowledge of molecular orbitals and their properties.
  • Basic grasp of reflection operations in three-dimensional space.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of molecular symmetry in detail, focusing on diatomic molecules.
  • Explore the classification of molecular orbitals based on symmetry properties.
  • Learn about the application of group theory in quantum mechanics.
  • Investigate the use of computational tools for visualizing molecular symmetry, such as the provided reflection program.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, chemists studying molecular symmetry, and researchers interested in the electronic properties of diatomic molecules.

moriheru
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My source is Walter A. Harrison:"Applied Quantum Mechanics" Section 5.4 p.83.
When studying diatomic molecules such as N_2 one may make use of the high symmetry of the molecule with relfection planes σx,y,z.
In Harrison it is said that each molecular orbital can be chosen to be even or odd under each reflection. As a idiot I do not understand what he means with that and it seems to have relevance to the rest of the text.
Thanks for any help.
 
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I also found this programm for the relfection of the bencene ring, which is also mentioned in Harrison.
http://symmetry.otterbein.edu/tutorial/reflection.html#
Still didn't help...real genius here :).
 

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