In our three-dimensional world, one can plot, see, and comprehend a function of two variables at most, V(x,y). One cannot plot a function of three or more variables. For this reason, visualization of the potential energy function in its full dimensionality is impossible even for the smallest polyatomic molecules, such as triatomics. This creates…

Reviews three softwre packages: "Molecular Graphics on the Apple Microcomputer, Enhanced Version 2.0"; "Molecular Graphics on the IBM PC Microcomputer"; and "Molecular Animator, IBM PC Version." Packages are rated based on ease of use, subject matter content, pedagogic value, and student reaction. (CW)