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The octet rule in chemical space: generating virtual molecules

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Abstract

We present a generator of virtual molecules that selects valid chemistry on the basis of the octet rule. Also, we introduce a mesomer group key that allows a fast detection of duplicates in the generated structures. Compared to existing approaches, our model is simpler and faster, generates new chemistry and avoids invalid chemistry. Its versatility is illustrated by the correct generation of molecules containing third-row elements and a surprisingly adept handling of complex boron chemistry. Without any empirical parameters, our model is designed to be valid also in unexplored regions of chemical space. One first unexpected finding is the high prevalence of dipolar structures among generated molecules.

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Notes

  1. Milliseconds on a 3.4 GHz Intel Core i7-3770 CPU.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Fraunhofer-Institut für Algorithmen und Wissenschaftliches Rechnen SCAI, Schloss Birlinghoven, 53754, Sankt Augustin, Germany

    Rafel Israels, Astrid Maaß & Jan Hamaekers

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  1. Rafel Israels
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  2. Astrid Maaß
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  3. Jan Hamaekers
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Correspondence to Jan Hamaekers.

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Israels, R., Maaß, A. & Hamaekers, J. The octet rule in chemical space: generating virtual molecules. Mol Divers 21, 769–778 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11030-017-9775-2

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