Point Group Dinfh: CO2

Build carbon dioxide, CO₂, with the Indigo® 68821W point group molecular model kit to demonstrate D_∞h point group symmetry, linear molecular geometry, and the properties of centrosymmetric molecules. Ideal for symmetry, group theory, and inorganic chemistry courses.

The Indigo® 68821W model of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is an example of the D_∞h point group. The model shows symmetry elements: identity operation E; an infinite-order principal rotation axis (C_∞) along the molecular axis; an infinite number of vertical mirror planes (σ_v) containing that axis; a horizontal mirror plane (σ_h) perpendicular to it; an infinite number of C₂ axes perpendicular to the principal axis; and an inversion center (i). D_∞h is one of two point groups for linear molecules where both ends are identical. Other D_∞h molecules include 2-butynedinitrile, diacetylene, difluorobutadiyne, ethyne, and hexatriyne.