Algebraic characterization of bridged polycyclic compounds

An approach based on the topological distance matrix is used for algebraic characterization of bridged polycyclic compounds. The classical bridged structures which have external bridges between cycles were examined together with the more complicated three-dimensional polycyclic systems regarded as containing internal bridges. Thirteen rules are given for characterizing the main types of structural rearrangements in these compounds. The important topological characteristic of (poly)cyclic systems, the molecular cyclicity, is examined in the polycyclic condensed, spiro- and bridged structures, respectively.