File Extension Database

Open MOL File

The MOL file extension, short for Molecular file format, is commonly associated with chemical software used to store and visualize molecular data. It is widely used in various scientific fields related to chemistry and biology. In this article, we will discuss the possible formats and ways to open and use files with the MOL file extension.

Format Variations

MOL file formats can come in various forms, including SDF (Structure Data File), MOLFile, and MOL2. Each format serves specific purposes and has distinct features:

  • SDF: Developed by MDL Information Systems, SDF is a widely employed file format for the exchange of molecular structures and their associated data. It accommodates multiple structures in a single file and can include additional information, like chemical properties. (source)
  • MOLFile: Also known as MOL or Molfile V2000, MOLFile is a widely accepted format for encoding two-dimensional chemical structures. It represents atoms and bonds, as well as their properties and spatial orientation within various software solutions. (source)
  • MOL2: Mainly used by the Sybyl molecular modeling software suite, MOL2 is a file format that features richer chemical information and structure representation than the MOLFile. It includes bond angles, dihedral angles, and spatial coordinates in addition to atom and bond information. (source)

Opening MOL Files

To access the content of a file with the MOL extension, you need compatible software. Below is a list of widely used applications that can open and manipulate MOL files:

  • ChemDoodle: A chemical drawing software suite, ChemDoodle supports SDF and MOLFile formats. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. (ChemDoodle website)
  • ChemSketch: ChemSketch is a popular chemical drawing program that supports MOL files. It enables users to create molecular structures and visualize their properties. It is available for Windows. (ACD/ChemSketch website)
  • MarvinSketch: Developed by ChemAxon, MarvinSketch is another chemical drawing application that handles MOLFile and SDF file formats. The software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. (MarvinSketch website)
  • Avogadro: An advanced molecule editor, Avogadro is a comprehensive tool for exploring and creating molecular structures, initially focused on the MOL2 format. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. (Avogadro website)

Conversion and Visualization

Converting MOL files to other formats or visualizing these files in more accessible formats, such as images, can be achieved using the following tools:

  • Open Babel: A chemical toolbox, Open Babel is an invaluable tool for converting MOL files between different formats like MOL2, SDF, and PDB. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. (Open Babel website)
  • Jmol: Jmol is an open-source Java viewer for chemical structures in 3D, supporting MOL, MOL2, and SDF formats. It is also available as a standalone application or an applet for integration into websites. (Jmol website)

MOL File Important Information

As the MOL file format is widely used in chemical software, understanding its structure, capabilities, and available tools is vital for researchers, scientists, and students in chemistry and biology fields. By knowing the format variations and the software that supports them, users can efficiently manage, convert, and visualize molecular structures and chemical data.

How Can I Open MOL File on Windows

How Can I Open MOL File on Mac OS

How Can I Open MOL File on Android

If you downloaded a MOL file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

How to Open MOL File on iPhone or iPad

To open MOL File on iOS device follow steps below:

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.

MOL file article translations

open mol fileopen mol fileopen mol fileopen mol fileopen mol fileopen mol fileopen mol fileopen mol file