| Abstract Scope |
Group-representation theory is one of the most important layers in the bedrock of modern chemistry and physics. Its reach includes any physical or mathematical system that exhibits any kind of symmetry, and provides a unique parameter set for describing structures that break the parent symmetries of a system. Representation (a.k.a. “symmetry mode”) analysis is an essential tool in the classification of phase transitions. New crystallographic infrastructure within the ISOTROPY Software Suite now enables a broad range of applications, including the compact description of general order-parameter types (displacive, magnetic, rigid-unit-rotational, occupational, lattice-strain, etc.), a common parameter set for the phases of a complicated phase diagram, the solution of large and subtle superstructures, the analysis of local order in disordered crystals, and the characterization of incommensurately modulated crystals. The presentation will introduce basic concepts, highlight recent developments and discoveries, and describe unexplored opportunities. |