Short Essay On Crystals

What is a crystal? A crystal is a solid substance with definite geometric shapes and molecules that are arranged in a repeating pattern (Compton?s ). Crystals have fixed angles between its faces, which have distinct edges. If the faces of a crystal can reflect light, then it will sparkle (Stangle). Crystals have constant angles because of the regular arrangement of its particles. There are seven types of crystals: cubic, tetragonal, orthorhombic, hexagonal, trigonal, monoclinic, and triclinic (Dr. Boyle). Crystals are classified by the shapes of their lattice or the ?regular, periodic configuration of particles? (American Heritage).

There are two different types of lattices. There are primitive lattices where there is only one lattice point

Then, slowly add one tablespoon of ammonia to the mixture and mix well. Then, carefully spoon the solution over charcoal, paper towels, or any other porous material (Stangle).

The scientific definition of a crystal is based on its internal structure rather than its outward appearance. In order for a substance to be a crystal its molecules must be arranged in a repeating pattern. A single crystal grows in size as additional molecules of the material settle on it (Compton?s). Sometimes the atoms can combine singly instead of first forming molecules to make a large crystalline mass (?Crystals?).

Seed crystals are immersed in a solvent that contains typically about ten to thirteen percent of the desired solution. This means that the protocrystals are subsided in ten to thirteen percent of the desired solution (Britanica). The growth of a crystal is faster than vapor growth because there is a higher concentration of molecules at the surface in a liquid as compared to a gas , but it is still relatively slow. Crystals can be grown under moderate conditions from all ninety-two naturally occurring elements except helium. Helium can be crystallized only at low temperatures by using twenty-five atmospheres of pressure