Sorry, I have just found the description for sides N

sides N
The number of straight-line segments used to draw an oval cross-section or the circumference of a tube, with higher numbers corresponding to finer subdivisions (initial default 12). Shading is used to give a smooth, rounded appearance despite this approximation of the shape. See also: graphics quality

https://www.cgl.ucsf.edu/chimerax/docs/user/commands/cartoon.html#hmode

Best wishes,

Winston

From: Wen-Jin Winston Wu [mailto:winston@gate.sinica.edu.tw]
Sent: Friday, July 2, 2021 2:27 PM
To: ChimeraX-users@cgl.ucsf.edu
Subject: how to change the radius of loop

Hello,

Does anyone know how to modify the radius of loops?

I am trying to show structural difference between the three aligned proteins with the cartoon helices shown as tubes.

However, when I reduced the helix radius from 2 to 1 (

“cartoon style modeh tube rad 1 sides 24”), the radius of a helix is only about twice that of a loop/coil.

Also, what does the number “24” do in the “sides 24”?. I could not find the description on this on ChimeraX

Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,

Best wishes,

Winston