The Degeneracy, Selection Rules, and Other Properties of the Normal Vibrations of Certain Polyatomic Molecules

The number, degeneracies, and symmetries of the normal modes of vibration are given for molecules in which several atoms are bonded to a central atom. Ninety-nine symmetries, including all possible structures with three to seven atoms and the more important structures of eight and nine atoms are listed in tables. The selection rules for the Raman and infrared spectra are included as well as the polarization properties of the Raman lines and the rotational structure of the vibrational bands. In a number of more important cases figures are given showing the normal modes of vibration. Many examples of molecules which are believed to possess certain of the structures are included in the tables, together with references to experimental papers dealing with them.