What is Avogadro?

Avogadro is a useful app for scientists and students who need to draw 3D molecular compositions. Such models show the molecule from all angles and perspectives. You can use it in computational chemistry, molecular modeling, bioinformatics, materials science, and other related fields. The process is as simple and exciting as possible, even if you just want to create your own colorful structures.

Since Avogadro has open source code, you can easily supplement its functionality with third-party extensions. This is an excellent option for someone who has some coding knowledge and is looking for a flexible app. However, if you don't know how to add plugins, you still have access to some pretty advanced features.

Basic tools

Molecules can be created and edited using the drawing tool. Add or remove different atoms in your designs. Avogadro uses carbon as the default element, but you can choose any element from the Elements menu. Once you have created your molecule, you can optimize its geometry using the extensions menu. This will provide your molecule with the appropriate bond lengths and angles. You can use this to pan, rotate, and scale the molecule image. There are visual cues that will show what's going on. You can rotate the entire molecule by clicking.

Mechanics constantly optimize molecular geometry. This tool provides an interactive interface that allows you to control the molecule at that moment. The auto-optimization options provide several force field parameters. You can measure bond lengths, angles, and dihedrals. When you click on the atoms, Avogadro automatically calculates the distances between the atoms in the appropriate order.

Learn how to use it

The interface in this program is quite simple. You need to open the chemical data file on your disk to get started. A large number of file types are supported, including CML, XYZ, SDF, Mol2, PDB, etc. Several example molecules come with Avogadro.

Avogadro has a detailed guide on using the program and features on its official website. There is a detailed description of the interface and instructions with screenshots. This way, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the possibilities of creation. Use the mouse button to view the model from all sides and change the scale.

Should I download Avogadro for Mac?

If you are a student or scientist and you have to study chemical, physical or biological sciences - you should try Avogadro. This is a fairly advanced molecule editor and a 3D visualizer. It has a powerful plugin architecture and a simple interface. In addition, the application is flexible, and you can extend its tools with third-party plugins and extensions. Avogadro supports its users' translations into Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and other world languages ​​.

The developers maintain the stable operation of the program even now. Sometimes errors occur when you add an extension. Regular updates with new features and improvements are also released. Overall, this is an excellent app with advanced free simulation features.