Symmetry as a Tool for Solving Chemical Problems

Symmetry is found all around us. It is a fundamental concept in the arts as well as in the sciences. In chemical reactions, the use of reagents and catalysts with rotational symmetry decreases the number of transition states, a situation that may lead to increased selectivity. The presence of symmetry facilitates strucure determinations, and symmetry arguments may be helpful for elucidating mechanisms and for gaining insight into dynamic molecular processes.