Crystallography is the scientific study of crystals and their structures. It involves analyzing the arrangement of atoms within solid materials, particularly in crystalline substances where atoms are arranged in a highly ordered, repeating pattern. Crystallography plays a crucial role in various fields, including chemistry, physics, biology, and materials science. Key aspects of crystallography include: 1. **X-ray Diffraction**: This is one of the primary techniques used in crystallography.
Chemical elements can be categorized by their crystal structures, which describe how atoms are arranged in a solid material. These arrangements play a crucial role in determining the physical properties, stability, and behavior of materials. Here are some common types of crystal structures found in elemental solids: 1. **Face-Centered Cubic (FCC)**: - **Description**: Atoms are located at each of the corners and the centers of all the cube faces.
Crystal structure types refer to the organized arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules within a crystalline solid. The arrangement is characterized by the symmetry and periodicity of the crystal lattice. Here are some common types of crystal structures: 1. **Cubic**: - **Simple Cubic (SC)**: Atoms are located at the corners of a cube. Example: Polonium.
Crystal systems are a classification of crystalline materials based on their symmetry and the arrangement of their atoms in a periodic structure. Each crystal system is defined by a set of lattice parameters, which include the lengths of the unit cell edges and the angles between them. There are seven primary crystal systems in three-dimensional space: 1. **Cubic (or Isometric)**: All sides are equal in length, and all angles are 90 degrees. Example: Sodium chloride (table salt).
Crystallographic databases are specialized repositories that store comprehensive information about the crystal structures of various materials, including organic and inorganic compounds, metals, minerals, and macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. These databases serve as essential resources for researchers in fields such as materials science, chemistry, biology, and solid-state physics.
Crystallography journals are scientific publications that focus on the study of crystals and the arrangement of atoms within solids. This field, known as crystallography, plays a crucial role in various areas of science and engineering, including chemistry, physics, materials science, and biology.
The term "crystals" can refer to several different concepts depending on the context. Here are the main meanings: 1. **Physical Crystals**: In geology and chemistry, crystals are solid materials whose atoms are arranged in highly ordered, repeating patterns. This orderly structure leads to the formation of distinct geometric shapes. Common examples include salt (sodium chloride), quartz, and diamonds. Crystals can form through processes such as cooling magma, evaporating water, or precipitating from solutions.
In geometry, a honeycomb refers to a structure made up of cells that tessellate space, and is closely associated with the arrangement of hexagonal shapes, similar to the way bees build their hives. Honeycombs can be thought of as a way to partition space into smaller, regular units, often with a focus on efficiency and maximizing area or volume.
Crystal growth refers to the process by which a solid crystal forms and increases in size. The methods for crystal growth can be broadly classified into several categories based on the conditions and techniques used for the growth process. Here are some of the most common methods: ### 1. **Slow Cooling (Solvothermal Method)**: - **Process**: A solution containing the dissolved material is heated and then slowly cooled to promote crystal nucleation and growth.
Mineral habits refer to the characteristic external shape and physical structure that minerals exhibit when they crystallize. This term encompasses the overall appearance, form, and arrangement of the mineral's crystals, including features such as size, shape, and aggregation patterns. Mineral habits can vary widely, and they are often categorized into several types, including: 1. **Crystalline**: Minerals that form distinct, well-defined crystal shapes. Examples include quartz and pyrite.
Minerals are classified into various crystal systems based on the symmetry and arrangement of their crystal lattices. There are seven primary crystal systems, each defined by specific geometric parameters such as the lengths of the axes and the angles between them. Here’s an overview of the seven crystal systems: 1. **Cubic (or Isometric)**: - Axes: All three axes are of equal length and intersect at right angles (90 degrees).
Quasicrystals are a unique class of materials that exhibit a non-repeating, ordered arrangement of atoms, which distinguishes them from traditional crystals. Unlike conventional crystals, which have periodic structures that repeat periodically in three-dimensional space, quasicrystals possess an ordered but non-periodic structure. This means they do not exhibit translational symmetry, yet they still maintain a form of long-range order.
In the context of physics and material science, particularly in the study of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic materials, an anti-phase domain refers to a region within a material where the order parameter (like polarization in ferroelectrics or magnetization in ferromagnets) is aligned oppositely compared to its neighboring regions. This can result in distinct domain structures where the orientation of the dipoles or spins differs from those in adjacent domains.
Anti-structure is a concept often associated with the field of anthropology, particularly in the study of rituals and social phenomena. It relates to the idea of breaking down or subverting the normal social order and hierarchies, allowing for a temporary reversal of roles, norms, and rules. The term is most commonly linked to the work of Victor Turner, who explored the dynamics of ritual and social processes.
The Atomic Packing Factor (APF) is a dimensionless quantity that describes how efficiently atoms are packed in a given unit cell of a crystal structure. It is defined as the ratio of the volume occupied by atoms within a cell to the total volume of the cell itself.
The Avrami equation describes the crystallization process in materials science, particularly the kinetics of phase transformations, such as the growth of crystalline phases from a solution or melt. It is named after the researcher Melvin Avrami, who developed the equation while studying the nucleation and growth of crystals.
Biaxial nematic is a phase of liquid crystals that exhibits a unique ordering of their molecules. In standard nematic liquid crystals, the molecules are oriented primarily along a single axis (the director), exhibiting long-range order in one dimension but lacking positional order. In the case of biaxial nematics, the ordering is more complex.
The cation-anion radius ratio is a concept used in chemistry and materials science to understand the stability and coordination of ions in solid ionic compounds. It is defined as the ratio of the radius of a cation (positively charged ion) to the radius of an anion (negatively charged ion). This ratio plays a critical role in predicting the arrangement of ions in a crystal lattice and the type of structure that will form.
In crystallography, cleavage refers to the tendency of a crystalline material to split along specific planes of weakness in its structure. These planes are determined by the arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules within the crystal lattice. Cleavage is an important property in mineralogy, as it can affect how minerals break and their overall appearance.
A cocrystal is a crystalline structure that consists of two or more different components, typically including an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and a coformer. These components are typically held together by non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, or ionic interactions. Cocrystals are characterized by their distinct stoichiometry and can have unique physical and chemical properties compared to their individual components.
Collaborative Computational Project Number 4 (CCP4) is a UK-based initiative that focuses on the development of software and computational methods for macromolecular crystallography. It aims to facilitate the determination of the three-dimensional structures of biological macromolecules, particularly proteins and nucleic acids, using X-ray crystallography.
Corundum is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and is known for its hardness and durability. It has a hexagonal crystal structure, specifically belonging to the trigonal crystal system. The unit cell of corundum is characterized by a structure in which aluminum ions are surrounded by oxygen ions, creating a strong ionic bond. In terms of its lattice parameters, corundum typically has a hexagonal arrangement with space group R-3c (or D3d).
Coupled substitution generally refers to a concept in various fields, including chemistry, materials science, and sometimes in economics or other disciplines. Here's a brief overview of its meaning in a couple of contexts: 1. **Chemistry**: In the context of chemistry, coupled substitution often refers to reactions where two or more substituents are replaced simultaneously or in a coordinated manner. For instance, in organic synthesis, certain reactions can facilitate the replacement of multiple functional groups in a single reaction step.
Cryo bio-crystallography, often referred to as cryo-crystallography, is a specialized technique in the field of structural biology and biophysics. This method combines aspects of cryo-cooling with X-ray crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structures of biological macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, at atomic resolution.
Crystal chemistry is the branch of chemistry that studies the arrangement of atoms within crystalline solids, the relationships between the structure of these crystals and their physical properties, and the chemical interactions that govern their formation. It combines principles from chemistry, physics, materials science, and mineralogy to understand how crystal structures influence the behavior and characteristics of materials. Key aspects of crystal chemistry include: 1. **Crystal Structure**: This refers to the orderly geometric arrangement of atoms or molecules in a crystal.
The term "Crystal cluster" can refer to different concepts depending on the context, so I will provide a few possible interpretations: 1. **Crystal Cluster in Crystallography**: In the field of crystallography, a crystal cluster can refer to a group of crystals that are closely associated or found together in a mineral deposit. This can include various arrangements of crystals that form in a specific geological environment.
Crystal habit refers to the characteristic external appearance or shape of a mineral crystal or a crystalline substance. This term describes how the individual crystals grow in a particular form and how they interrelate with one another. Crystal habit can be influenced by various factors, including temperature, pressure, and the chemical environment in which the crystals form. Common crystal habits include: 1. **Prismatic**: Elongated crystals with a uniform cross-section, resembling prisms.
The Crystal model is a family of agile software development methodologies, which are centered on the idea that different projects may require different approaches based on their specific context, team size, and project criticality. Developed by Alistair Cockburn, the Crystal methodologies emphasize flexibility, communication, and the human aspect of software development.
Crystal optics is a branch of optics that studies the interaction of light with crystalline materials. It deals with the unique properties of crystals that arise from their periodic atomic structure, which affects how light is transmitted, reflected, refracted, and polarized within and by the crystals. Key aspects of crystal optics include: 1. **Anisotropy**: Crystals are often anisotropic, meaning their optical properties vary depending on the direction of light propagation through the crystal.
Boron-rich metal borides are a class of materials that typically have complex crystal structures due to the presence of boron in high concentrations. These compounds often contain transition metals, and their structure is characterized by the presence of various boron polyhedra and metal coordination entities.
The crystal structure of boron-rich metal borides is characterized by a variety of complex arrangements, primarily due to the nature of boron, which can exist in different bonding schemes and coordination geometries. Metal borides exhibit different structures based on the metal involved, the boron content, and the synthesis conditions.
Crystallization is a process in which a solid forms, where the atoms or molecules are highly organized into a structured, repeating pattern known as a crystal lattice. This process can occur in various contexts, including in nature (such as the formation of minerals), in industrial applications (like the production of pharmaceuticals or food), and in laboratory settings.
Crystallization adjutants are substances that are used to promote or enhance the crystallization process of solid compounds from a solution. These materials can assist in controlling the size, shape, and purity of the resulting crystals, making them particularly important in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, food chemistry, and materials science. Crystallization is a common technique for purifying substances and can be influenced by many factors, including temperature, concentration, and the presence of additives.
A Crystallographic Information File (CIF) is a standard text file format used for the representation of crystallographic data. CIFs are widely used in the field of crystallography to enable the exchange, archiving, and publication of information regarding the structure of crystalline materials. The format was developed by the International Union of Crystallography (IUCr) and has become a crucial tool for researchers in solid-state chemistry, mineralogy, and materials science.
Crystallographic image processing generally refers to techniques and methods used in the analysis and interpretation of crystal structures and diffraction patterns, often in the context of X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy, or similar imaging modalities. It involves the processing of data acquired from crystals to extract structural information about molecules, particularly in fields like crystallography, material science, and structural biology.
A **difference density map** is a visual representation often used in the fields of chemistry, biology, and materials science to illustrate the differences in electron density between two states of a system, typically before and after a particular interaction or event. It provides insights into how electron distributions change due to molecular interactions, conformational changes, or other phenomena.
Diffraction topography is a powerful imaging technique used primarily in materials science and crystallography to investigate the internal structure and defects of crystalline materials. It is based on the principles of X-ray diffraction or neutron diffraction and allows for the visualization of the crystal lattice and any distortions or defects within the crystal.
Electron crystallography is a scientific technique used to determine the atomic and molecular structures of crystalline materials using electron diffraction. This method takes advantage of the wave nature of electrons, which can provide high-resolution structural information about materials thanks to their short wavelengths compared to X-rays. The key aspects of electron crystallography include: 1. **Electron Diffraction**: When a beam of electrons is directed at a crystalline sample, the electrons are scattered by the atoms in the crystal lattice.
Epitaxy is a process used in material science and semiconductor manufacturing where a thin layer of crystalline material is grown on a substrate of a different material. The key characteristic of epitaxy is that the new layer, or epitaxial layer, is crystallographically aligned with the underlying substrate. This alignment is critical for applications in electronics and optics, as it can influence the electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of the resulting material.
Euhedral and anhedral are terms used to describe the crystal habits of minerals, specifically concerning the shape and development of their crystal faces. 1. **Euhedral**: This term describes crystals that have well-formed, clearly defined faces. Euhedral crystals grow in conditions that allow them to develop their natural geometric shapes without interference from neighboring crystals. As a result, these crystals have smooth surfaces and are typically more aesthetically pleasing and recognizable. Euhedral crystals are often considered ideal representations of a mineral species.
The term "facet" can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are a few common interpretations: 1. **General Definition**: A facet refers to one side, aspect, or feature of something. It can describe any one of the many parts that make up a whole. 2. **Geology and Gemology**: In the context of gemstones, a facet is one of the flat polished surfaces on a cut gem.
The Flux method, also known as the Flux Variational Data Assimilation (FVDA), is a computational technique often used in fields such as meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science. It is primarily employed for data assimilation, which is a way of integrating real-world observational data into numerical models to produce more accurate forecasts or simulations of complex systems.
Fractional coordinates are a way of expressing the positions of points in a crystal lattice or within a unit cell of a crystal structure. Instead of using absolute coordinates (like Cartesian coordinates in a specific unit of measurement), fractional coordinates are given as a fraction of the unit cell parameters. In a crystal lattice, the unit cell is the smallest repeating unit that defines the entire structure of the crystal.
Friedel's law is a principle in crystallography that relates to the symmetry of X-ray diffraction patterns. Specifically, it states that the intensity of diffracted X-rays from a crystal will be the same for reflections that are related by a center of symmetry (or inversion center).
Friedel's salt, also known as ferrocyanide of potassium or potassium ferrocyanide, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula \( K_4[Fe(CN)_6] \cdot 3H_2O \). It appears as a yellow-orange crystalline solid and is sometimes referred to as yellow prussiate of potash.
The term "geometry index" can refer to different concepts depending on the context. Here are a few possibilities: 1. **Geometric Index in Mathematics**: In a mathematical classification or representation of shapes, a geometric index could refer to a numerical value or a set of values that characterize certain properties of a geometric object. This might include measurements, ratios, or other metrics that help understand the properties of the shape, such as area, volume, or curvature.
The Goldschmidt tolerance factor, often denoted as \( t \), is a measure used in mineralogy and materials science to predict the stability of mixed oxide phases, particularly in perovskite structures. It was introduced by the mineralogist Victor Moritz Goldschmidt in the early 20th century. The tolerance factor is defined using the ionic radii of the involved cations and anions in the crystal structure.
Hermann–Mauguin notation, also known as the international notation or Schoenflies notation, is a system used in crystallography to describe the symmetry and properties of crystal structures. This notation helps categorize crystals based on their symmetry operations, such as rotations, reflections, and inversions, allowing scientists to communicate the structural characteristics of different crystalline materials succinctly. In Hermann–Mauguin notation, a crystal system is represented by a unique symbol that combines letters and numbers.
The hexagonal crystal family is one of the seven crystal systems in crystallography, characterized by a specific arrangement of atoms within a crystal lattice. In the hexagonal system, crystals have a three-dimensional structure defined by three axes of equal length that intersect at angles of 120 degrees in one plane (the basal plane) and a fourth axis that is perpendicular to this plane.
A homologous series is a group of organic compounds that share a common structural formula and have similar chemical properties, yet differ from each other by a specific number of methylene groups (-CH₂-) or a similar repeating unit. The members of a homologous series exhibit a gradual change in physical properties, such as melting and boiling points, as the molecular weight increases.
In crystallography, isomorphism refers to the phenomenon where two or more different crystal structures have similar atomic arrangements and symmetry properties. This similarity enables the crystals to share the same crystal system and often similar physical properties, even though the chemical composition of the materials may differ. Isomorphism occurs when the ions or molecules of different substances can substitute for one another in the crystal lattice without significantly altering the overall structure of the crystal.
Lattice energy refers to the amount of energy that is released when ions in a gas phase come together to form a solid ionic compound. It can also be viewed as the energy required to separate one mole of an ionic solid into its gaseous ions. Lattice energy is a measure of the strength of the forces between the ions in an ionic solid.
The Laue equations describe the relationship between the wave vectors of incident and scattered waves in the context of X-ray diffraction, particularly in crystallography. They are crucial for understanding how X-rays interact with crystal lattices and help in determining the structure of crystalline materials. When X-rays are directed at a crystal, they can be diffracted by the periodic lattice of atoms within the crystal. The Laue equations apply to the diffraction of X-rays when they enter a crystal at specific angles.
The Le Bail method is a technique used in the field of crystallography, specifically in the analysis of X-ray or neutron diffraction data for determining the crystal structure of materials. It is particularly useful when the crystal structure is not fully known or when dealing with complex structures. The core idea of the Le Bail method is to perform a profile fitting of the entire diffraction pattern, rather than relying on the traditional method of indexing peaks from the diffraction pattern and then refining the structure.
Mineral tests, also known as mineral identification tests, are a series of examinations used to classify and identify minerals based on their physical and chemical properties. Below is a list of common mineral tests along with their explanations: 1. **Color**: The mineral's color can be an easily observable property, but it can be misleading due to impurities. 2. **Streak**: The color of the powdered mineral when it is scraped across a hard surface (streak plate).
As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, "Macle" could refer to a few different things, depending on the context. Here are a couple of possible interpretations: 1. **Macle (Clothing Brand)**: It could refer to a fashion or clothing brand, though specific details about brands with that name may vary or change over time. 2. **Macle (Surname)**: It may also refer to a surname or a family name, common in various cultures.
Metal-induced crystallization (MIC) is a process in materials science and solid-state physics that involves the transformation of amorphous or partially crystalline materials into a fully crystalline state through the influence of metal films or layers. This technique is often used in the production of thin films and semiconductor materials.
Mosaicity is a term commonly used in the fields of crystallography and structural biology. It refers to the degree of misalignment or variation in the orientation of crystallites within a single crystal or a crystal mass. In essence, it describes how "mosaic" a crystal appears when viewed under certain conditions, particularly in X-ray diffraction. In a perfect crystal, all the atoms are arranged in a highly ordered and uniform manner.
Multi-wavelength anomalous dispersion (MAD) is a technique used in protein crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structure of macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, by exploiting anomalous scattering. This method relies on the use of multiple wavelengths of X-ray radiation, typically around the absorption edges of specific heavy metal atom derivatives incorporated into the crystal.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Crystallography is a hybrid technique combining elements of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structures of biomolecules, particularly proteins and nucleic acids, in their crystalline states. ### Key Aspects of NMR Crystallography: 1. **Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)**: - NMR is a powerful analytical technique that exploits the magnetic properties of atomic nuclei.
The Patterson function is a mathematical construct used in the field of crystallography, particularly in the interpretation of X-ray diffraction data. It is named after the American physicist Alfred L. Patterson, who introduced the method. In crystallography, when X-rays are scattered by a crystal, the resulting diffraction pattern contains information about the electron density within the crystal structure. However, the phase information, which is crucial for determining the absolute positions of atoms, is lost in the Fourier transform that generates the diffraction pattern.
The Pearson symbol is a shorthand notation used in crystallography to describe the structure and symmetry of crystal systems. It combines the information about the crystal's lattice type and the number of molecules per unit cell into a concise symbol.
Pericline is a term that can refer to a specific type of mineral, known as a variety of the mineral clinopyroxene. In a broader context, pericline can also denote a specific type of twinning in minerals, particularly feldspar. In crystallography, pericline twinning involves a specific orientation of crystal structure that can result in distinctive growth patterns and optical properties.
In crystallography, a periodic graph refers to a visual representation of the repeating patterns that characterize crystal structures. Crystals are solid materials where atoms are arranged in a highly ordered and repeating three-dimensional pattern. This periodic arrangement can be modeled mathematically and graphically, allowing scientists to analyze and understand the properties of materials.
Perovskite refers to a specific class of materials that have a characteristic crystal structure named after the mineral perovskite (CaTiO3), which was first discovered in the Ural Mountains in Russia. The general formula for perovskite-structured materials can be expressed as ABX3, where: - A is a cation (a positively charged ion) that occupies the larger dodecahedral sites.
Phase transformation crystallography is a field of study that deals with the changes in the crystal structure of materials when they undergo phase transformations. These transformations can occur due to variations in temperature, pressure, composition, or other environmental factors, leading to changes in physical properties, stability, and behavior of materials. Here are some key aspects of phase transformation crystallography: 1. **Phase Transformations**: A phase transformation is a change from one crystal structure to another. Common examples include polymorphic transitions (e.
Prediction of crystal properties by numerical simulation refers to the use of computational methods to model and analyze the structural, electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties of crystals. This approach leverages numerical algorithms and simulations to provide insights that are often difficult or impossible to obtain through experimental techniques. The primary methods used in such simulations include: 1. **Density Functional Theory (DFT)**: A quantum mechanical modeling method used to investigate the electronic structure of many-body systems.
Protein crystallization is a laboratory technique used to form well-ordered crystals of proteins. This process is essential for studying the three-dimensional structures of proteins using X-ray crystallography, a powerful method for determining atomic arrangements in biological macromolecules. The main steps involved in protein crystallization typically include: 1. **Protein Purification**: Before crystallization, the protein of interest must be isolated and purified. This can involve techniques such as affinity chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and gel filtration.
Quantum crystallography is an advanced field that combines principles of quantum mechanics with crystallography, the study of crystal structures and their properties. It focuses on understanding and describing the arrangement of atoms in crystalline materials at a quantum level. This field leverages quantum mechanics to gain insights into the electronic and structural properties of crystals. Traditional crystallography often uses X-ray diffraction to determine the positions of atoms within a crystal lattice.
Quasicrystals are a unique form of solid matter that possess an ordered structure but do not exhibit the periodic symmetry typical of conventional crystals. Unlike regular crystals, which repeat their atomic arrangement in a regular, periodic manner, quasicrystals have an ordered pattern that is aperiodic. This means they are structured in such a way that they display symmetries not found in ordinary crystals.
In crystallography, the R-factor (or R-value) is a quantitative measure used to assess how well a proposed model of a crystal structure matches the observed X-ray diffraction data. It is crucial for evaluating the quality of the structure determined from X-ray crystallography.
Racemic crystallography is a technique used in the study of substances that exist as racemic mixtures, which are composed of equal amounts of two enantiomers (mirror-image isomers) of a chiral compound. These enantiomers often have identical physical properties in a symmetrical environment, making it challenging to distinguish between them using traditional methods. In racemic crystallography, researchers focus on the crystallization of these mixtures to study their solid-state properties and structural features.
The Sayre equation is a mathematical relation used in the context of X-ray crystallography, particularly in the study of macromolecular structures. It is named after the scientist who contributed to its formulation, Donald Sayre. The equation establishes a relationship between the structure factors of a crystal and the electron density within the crystal. Specifically, it relates the intensity of the diffracted X-rays to the electron density of the crystal lattice.
Single-wavelength anomalous dispersion (SAD) is a technique used in X-ray crystallography to solve the phase problem, which is crucial for determining the three-dimensional structures of macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids. The phase problem arises because X-ray diffraction data only provide the amplitudes of the diffracted waves, but not their phases, which are necessary for reconstructing the electron density map.
Streak seeding is a method used in agricultural production, particularly in the planting of crops like wheat, barley, and other grains. This technique involves sowing seeds in a pattern or "streak" rather than broadcasting them evenly across the field. The main goals of streak seeding are to improve seed-to-soil contact, enhance growth potential by optimizing light exposure, and facilitate better nutrient uptake by plants. In addition to its agronomic benefits, streak seeding can also have environmental advantages.
The structure factor is a crucial concept in the fields of crystallography and solid-state physics. It describes how the scattering of X-rays, neutrons, or electrons by a crystal lattice depends on the arrangement of atoms within the unit cell of the crystal.
The Strukturbericht designation is a systematic classification system used to identify and categorize crystal structures in the field of solid-state chemistry and materials science. Developed by H. C. M. de Wolff and his collaborators, it provides a way to describe the arrangement of atoms in a crystalline solid by using a letter (usually a capital letter) and a number to characterize the structure type. The system organizes structures based on their symmetry and the arrangement of atoms within the unit cell.
A supercell is a term used in crystallography to describe a larger periodic unit cell that is derived from a smaller, conventional unit cell of a crystal lattice. The supercell is constructed by repeating the basic unit cell in one or more directions, effectively creating a new, larger unit cell that can help researchers study the properties of materials with more complexity than the original unit cell can capture.
Tairus is primarily known as a brand associated with the production of tires and tire-related products. The company manufactures a variety of tires for different vehicle types, including passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs. Tairus tires are often marketed as cost-effective alternatives in the tire market, providing a balance of performance and affordability.
A thermal ellipsoid is a three-dimensional geometric representation used in crystallography and molecular biology to visualize the thermal motion of atoms in a crystal structure. It illustrates the atomic displacement due to thermal vibrations, which are influenced by temperature. Each atom in a crystalline material oscillates around its equilibrium position, and the extent of this motion can be described by an ellipsoid. The shape and orientation of the ellipsoid provide information about the distribution and amplitude of atomic vibrations.
Thermal laser epitaxy (TLE) is a specialized growth technique used in materials science and semiconductor fabrication to create thin films or heterostructures with precise control over their composition and structure. The method typically involves the use of a focused laser beam to locally heat a substrate or a precursor material, thereby enabling the growth of crystalline films on the substrate based on thermally induced reactions.
Time-resolved crystallography is a technique used to study dynamic processes in biological and chemical systems at the molecular level by capturing structural changes in crystalline samples over time. This method is particularly useful for observing transient states of molecules during biochemical reactions, protein folding, and other fast processes that occur on timescales ranging from nanoseconds to milliseconds and beyond.
Trihexagonal tiling, also known as a trihexagonal tessellation, is a type of tiling pattern formed by combining two types of regular polygons: hexagons and triangles. Specifically, the pattern consists of regular hexagons and equilateral triangles arranged in such a way that they fill a plane without any gaps or overlaps. In trihexagonal tiling, there are typically two configurations of the triangles and hexagons.
A unit cell is the smallest repeating unit of a crystal lattice that retains the geometric and symmetry characteristics of the entire crystal structure. It serves as the foundational building block from which the entire crystal structure can be constructed through translational repetition in three-dimensional space.
The Urbach tail refers to a particular feature of the optical absorption edge in disordered or amorphous semiconductor materials and insulators. It describes the exponential tail of the absorption spectrum that appears just below the bandgap energy of a material. In ideal crystalline semiconductors, the absorption edge is typically sharp and well-defined due to the periodic lattice structure. However, in disordered materials, defects, impurities, and localized states within the bandgap can lead to a broadening of the absorption spectrum.
A wallpaper group is a classification of two-dimensional repeating patterns, which can be used to describe the symmetry and structure of various kinds of tiling and decorative designs. In mathematical terms, a wallpaper group is one of the 17 different groups that describe the possible patterns that can be formed on a plane, where each pattern can be generated by translations, rotations, reflections, and glide reflections.
Water of crystallization refers to the water molecules that are integrally associated with a crystalline solid. These water molecules are part of the structure of the compound and are essential for maintaining the stability and integrity of the crystal lattice. When certain salts and other compounds crystallize, they can incorporate water molecules into their structure. This incorporation of water can significantly affect the physical and chemical properties of the compound, including its solubility, color, and stability.
The Wigner-Seitz cell is a concept in solid-state physics and crystallography that is used to describe the local environment of atoms in a crystalline lattice. It is essentially a way to define a unit cell that encompasses the region around a lattice point, giving a clear representation of how space is partitioned among the particles in a crystal.
