Structure of Solids

These flashcards cover the key concepts and definitions related to the structure of solids, including classification, properties, and applications.

What are solids characterized by?

A definite shape and volume due to strong intermolecular forces.

What determines the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of a solid?

The internal structure of the solid.

How can solids be classified based on atomic arrangement?

As Crystalline or Amorphous solids.

What are Crystalline Solids?

Solids with atoms arranged in a highly ordered repeating pattern.

What are Amorphous Solids?

Solids with no long-range order and randomly arranged atoms.

What is the main characteristic of Ionic Solids?

Composed of cations and anions held by strong electrostatic forces.

Give an example of an Ionic Solid.

NaCl (Sodium chloride).

What are Covalent Solids also known as?

Network solids.

What property distinguishes Metallic Solids?

They consist of positively charged metal ions surrounded by a sea of delocalized electrons.

What are Molecular Solids held together by?

Weak intermolecular forces like Van der Waals forces.

What is a crystal lattice?

A three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a repeating pattern.

What defines the symmetry and structure of a crystal?

The unit cell.

What is the packing efficiency for a Simple Cubic (SC) Unit Cell?

52%.

What is the coordination number for a Body-Centered Cubic (BCC) Unit Cell?

8.

What is the packing efficiency for a Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) Unit Cell?

74%.

How many types of Bravais lattices are there?

14 types classified into 7 crystal systems.

What property indicates a solid's resistance to deformation?

Hardness.

What are the electrical properties of conductors and insulators?

Conductors have free electrons; insulators do not.

What applications can be derived from the properties of metals?

Used in electrical wiring and construction.

What is a common application of covalent solids like diamonds?

Used for cutting tools.

What defines a semiconductor?

Moderate conductivity that increases with temperature.