Bond current graphs offer deeper insights into aromaticity for non-experts
Researchers combine cheap calculations with visual bond-current graphs to give easily interpretable representations of aromaticity in polycyclic compounds
Scientists in Switzerland and Israel have developed a new way to depict aromaticity in polycyclic compounds. It uses nucleus independent chemical shift data to produce detailed graphs that illustrate the direction and strength of aromatic ring currents. Aimed at non-experts, the graphs serve as accessible images from which users can discern an aromatic molecule’s behaviour or reactivity.