Symmetry considerations in structural phase transitions

Abstract

The most important symmetry arguments to be considered in the analysis of structural phase transitions are reviewed. A practical approach is used, with the discussion of many examples. In particular, we stress the straightforward application of computer tools freely available in internet to solve these symmetry-related problems. We focus on programs available on the Bilbao Crystallographic Server (www.cryst.ehu.es), but also the use of some programs from the ISOTROPY site (stokes.byu.edu/isotropy.html) is discussed.