File Extension Database

Open XYZ File

The .XYZ file extension is commonly associated with three-dimensional graphics and chemistry file formats. It can represent two primary file types: the Chemical Model Data file and the Cartesian Coordinates file. These file formats have different uses and require different tools to open and manipulate.

Chemical Model Data XYZ Files

In the field of chemistry, XYZ files are used to store molecule structures. Each line of an XYZ file usually represents a single atom, providing its atomic type and spatial coordinates in three-dimensional space.

To open and use this type of XYZ file, you'll typically need software that can handle molecular data, such as Open Babel or Avogadro. These programs allow you to visualize the molecular structures represented in XYZ files.

Cartesian Coordinates XYZ Files

In computer graphics, XYZ files represent 3D mesh models. They contain a set of vertices and their Cartesian coordinates in 3D space. These files are commonly used in various Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and 3D modeling applications.

To open and use XYZ files in this format, you might use software such as AutoCAD, Rhinoceros 3D, or Blender. These applications allow you to view and edit the 3D models represented in XYZ files.

Conversion

XYZ files can often be converted into other file types depending on the specific software being used. For example, Open Babel and Avogadro support converting chemical XYZ files into other molecular data formats, while CAD and 3D modeling software typically allow you to export XYZ files as other 3D file formats, such as STL or OBJ.

XYZ File Important Information

XYZ files serve essential functions in both chemistry and 3D graphics domains. It's crucial to use the correct software to open and manipulate these files, given their specific uses. Understanding the purpose and format of an XYZ file will guide you towards the correct application for opening it, ensuring the file's content is displayed and handled correctly.

How Can I Open XYZ File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open XYZ file is to find a XYZ file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a XYZ file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open XYZ file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as XYZ file opener then try to search online for "XYZ viewer", "application to open XYZ file" or "open XYZ file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open XYZ file

How Can I Open XYZ File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a XYZ file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a XYZ file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with XYZ file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as XYZ file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open XYZ file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open XYZ file then try to search for "XYZ viewer", "application to open XYZ file" or "read XYZ file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read XYZ file

How Can I Open XYZ File on Android

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

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded XYZ file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "XYZ".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "XYZ viewer", "XYZ file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open XYZ File on iPhone or iPad

To open XYZ File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the XYZ file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "XYZ". This way you can find apps which can open XYZ files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "XYZ viewer" or "XYZ file" online in your favorite search engine.

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