JSmol

JSmol is a JavaScript-based molecular viewer, a port of the Jmol project to JavaScript that runs entirely in modern web browsers without the need for Java or plug-ins. It provides interactive 3D visualization and analysis of molecular structures using HTML5 technologies, with rendering performed by WebGL when available and Canvas as a fallback.

Features include loading common structural formats such as PDB, CIF, SDF, MOL, and XYZ, and support for remote data sources via HTTP. Visual representations include ball-and-stick, space-filling, licorice, wireframe, and ribbons, as well as surface rendering. Users can measure distances, angles, and dihedrals; select atoms or residues; and apply scripts via JmolScript to automate tasks.

Usage and integration: JSmol is typically embedded in web pages by including the JSmol library and initializing a viewer instance in a container element. It is used in educational sites, textbooks, and online databases to provide plug-in-free molecular visualization, and it supports embedding in content management systems and learning platforms.

History and relation: JSmol originated as the JavaScript version of Jmol to replace the Java applet and broaden browser compatibility. It continues to be maintained as part of the Jmol/JSmol project, often used in conjunction with JmolScript and the Jmol API.

License and availability: JSmol is open-source software, publicly available from the Jmol project repository and documentation, with ongoing community contributions and updates for browser compatibility.