File extension .MOL
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
MDL Molfile Molecule Format | Symyx Technologies | Data Files |
MOL (MDL Molfile) is a file extension used by Chemsketch, an organic and inorganic structure drawing program developed by Advanced Chemistry Development, as well as other chemical drawing programs like Chemdraw. It is used to store structural information about molecules like connectivity, geometry, and bond order. This information can be exchanged between different programs as well as printed.
Technical Details
MOL files contain a header line which includes the title of the molecule along with other object specific information such as the number of atoms and bonds in the molecule followed by the atom block which includes information about each atom such as its atomic coordinates, charge, radical, and atom type. Furthermore, the bond block includes information about bond types and whether it is directional or not. Additionally, MOL files contain delete flags associated to each atom and bond in case changes are made with respect to the initial structure. In addition, MOL files can contain non-standard properties such as charges derived from ab initio calculations or parameters necessary for performing reactions.
The file structure of MOL files is very similar to that of MOL2, PDB, and SDF file extensions but with additional features required for 3D printing purposes.
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .MOL) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .MOL extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .MOL file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .MOL extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .MOL extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .MOL file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .MOL file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .MOL file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .MOL file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .MOL file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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