The molecular structure of a substance is described by the combination of nuclei and electrons that comprise its constitute molecules. This includes the molecular geometry (essentially the arrangement, in space, of the equilibrium positions of the constituent atoms—in reality, these are in a state of constant vibration, at temperatures above absolute zero), the electronic properties of the bonds, and further molecular properties.
The determination of molecular structure uses a multitude of experimental methods, that include X-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, many kinds of optical spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, electron spin resonance, and mass spectrometry. The prediction and explanation of molecular structure uses quantum theory of valency and methods of molecular modeling.
The term "molecular structure" extends to multi-molecular complexes.
Famous quotes containing the word structure:
“The question is still asked of women: “How do you propose to answer the need for child care?” That is an obvious attempt to structure conflict in the old terms. The questions are rather: “If we as a human community want children, how does the total society propose to provide for them?””
—Jean Baker Miller (20th century)