solvent-induced symmetry breaking

https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.ST07478
Breaking of symmetry of a molecular species by interactions with the solvent that can modify the molecular charge distribution, to favour asymmetrical configurations.
Note:
An example is the stabilization by a @P04717@ of a light-induced charge transfer state in a symmetric donor–acceptor–donor system.
Source:
PAC, 2007, 79, 293. (Glossary of terms used in photochemistry, 3rd edition (IUPAC Recommendations 2006)) on page 422 [Terms] [Paper]