Creating Atoms, Bonds, and Complex Structures

    Atoms

    Draw an Atom

    • Place an atom on the canvas by selecting one of the frequently used atoms from the Atom Toolbar (or from the Periodic Table).

    • Type its chemical symbol and click on the canvas where you want to put it.

    Change an Atom Type

    • Select the atom/atoms you would like to change with the Select tool, and then type the chemical symbol on your keyboard, or use the buttons on the Atoms toolbar.

    • Right-click the atom and change the atom type in the Atom Properties dialog window.

    Bonds

    Draw a Bond

    • To create a bond between two atoms, select the appropriate bond type from the Bonds combo box on the Tools toolbar and click one of the two atoms then drag the bond to the other atom or an empty place.

    Change a Bond Type

    • Select another bond type from the Bonds combo box and click the bond to be changed.

    • Right-click the bond and choose another bond type in the Bond Properties dialog window.

    • Move the mouse over the bond and hit the appropriate keyboard shortcut.

    Complex Structures

    • Drawing a chain is possible by clicking the Chain button on the Tools Toolbar and dragging on the canvas, or by using one of the Bond Tools.

    • Place a template on the canvas by selecting a template from the Template Toolbar and click on the canvas. Predefined abbreviated groups can be also useful to create complex molecular structures.

    • For selecting an abbreviated group, use the Abbreviated Groups button of the Template Toolbar.