Home > The ATOM library tutor

The ATOM library tutor-MATLAB scripts for molecular modeling.

AI-powered molecular simulation in MATLAB.

Rate this tool

20.0 / 5 (200 votes)

Introduction to The ATOM Library Tutor

The ATOM (Atomistic Topology Operations in Matlab) Library Tutor is designed to assist users in molecular simulations using MATLAB. Its primary purpose is to automate and facilitate the construction and analysis of complex molecular systems, providing a comprehensive suite of functions for importing, manipulating, and exporting molecular structures. The library leverages MATLAB's struct variable, allowing for efficient handling of atomic and molecular properties. By using the dot notation, users can easily access and modify attributes such as atom types, coordinates, bonds, and angles. This capability is essential for tasks like translating, rotating, and slicing molecular structures, constructing simulation boxes, and performing advanced calculations. For example, to build a custom molecular system, a user might import a unit cell, replicate it, add ions and water molecules, and finally write the structure to a file. The ATOM library simplifies these operations, making it an invaluable tool for researchers and engineers working in molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations.

Main Functions of The ATOM Library Tutor

  • import_atom

    Example Example

    oneunitcell = import_atom('someunitcell.pdb')

    Example Scenario

    Importing molecular structures from .pdb, .xyz, or .gro files into MATLAB for further manipulation and analysis.

  • replicate_atom

    Example Example

    mineral = replicate_atom(oneunitcell, Box_dim, [6 4 1])

    Example Scenario

    Replicating a unit cell multiple times to create a larger simulation box. This is useful in creating periodic structures for molecular simulations.

  • solvate_atom

    Example Example

    water = solvate_atom(...)

    Example Scenario

    Adding water molecules to a simulation box, which is crucial for simulating solvated systems such as biological molecules or hydrated minerals.

Ideal Users of The ATOM Library Tutor

  • Molecular Simulation Researchers

    Researchers who focus on molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. They benefit from the ATOM library's ability to automate the creation and manipulation of complex molecular systems, saving time and reducing errors in setting up simulations.

  • Materials Scientists and Chemists

    Scientists studying the properties of materials at the atomic level. The ATOM library helps them model and analyze the behavior of various materials, including minerals and polymers, by providing tools for structure manipulation and property calculation.

How to Use The ATOM Library Tutor

  • Visit aichatonline.org for a free trial without login, also no need for ChatGPT Plus.

    Access the ATOM Library Tutor directly from the website without any account or subscription requirements.

  • Install MATLAB and the ATOM library

    Ensure you have MATLAB installed on your system. Download the ATOM library from MATLAB File Exchange or GitHub. Add the library to your MATLAB path.

  • Import your structure files

    Use functions like `import_atom` to read your molecular structure files (e.g., .pdb, .xyz, .gro) into MATLAB. This initializes your atom struct for manipulation.

  • Manipulate and build your system

    Utilize various ATOM library functions such as `replicate_atom`, `ionize_atom`, `solvate_atom`, and `update_atom` to build and modify your molecular system as needed.

  • Export and analyze

    Write your final molecular system to desired formats using `write_atom_*` functions. Analyze properties and visualize structures with functions like `vmd` or `plot_atom`.

  • Data Analysis
  • Simulation Setup
  • Topology Creation
  • Molecular Modeling
  • Structure Visualization

Detailed Q&A about The ATOM Library Tutor

  • What is the ATOM library and what can it do?

    The ATOM (Atomistic Topology Operations in Matlab) library is a collection of MATLAB scripts for building, manipulating, and analyzing molecular simulation cells. It can handle complex molecular systems, generate topological information with bonds and angles, and support both molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations.

  • How can I import structure files into the ATOM library?

    You can import structure files using functions like `import_atom`, `import_atom_pdb`, `import_atom_xyz`, and `import_atom_gro`. These functions read .pdb, .xyz, and .gro files into MATLAB, initializing the atom struct for further manipulation.

  • How do I add water molecules to my simulation box?

    Use the `solvate_atom` function to add water molecules. This function solvates a defined region with a specified density of water molecules, creating a hydrated environment for your simulation.

  • Can the ATOM library handle periodic boundary conditions?

    Yes, the ATOM library supports periodic boundary conditions (PBC). Functions like `dist_matrix_atom` and `bond_angle_atom` take PBC into account, allowing for accurate generation of topologies with bonds across boundaries.

  • How do I visualize my molecular system using the ATOM library?

    You can visualize your molecular system using functions like `vmd(atom, Box_dim)` if VMD software is installed. Alternatively, the `plot_atom(atom, Box_dim)` function provides a quick way to plot a full simulation box within MATLAB.