Crystalline Solids
Definition
Crystalline solids are substances whose atoms, ions, or molecules are arranged in an orderly, repeating pattern extending in all three spatial dimensions.
Analogy
Imagine crystalline solids as perfectly organized bookshelves where each book (particle) has its own designated spot and follows a specific arrangement - much like the particles in crystalline structures!
Related terms
Unit Cell: The smallest repeating unit in a crystal lattice that shows the entire symmetry of the crystal structure.
Ionic Crystal: A type of crystalline solid formed by oppositely charged ions.
Lattice Energy: The energy required to separate one mole of an ionic compound into its gaseous ions.
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