CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC Meaning and
Definition
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Crystallographic refers to the scientific study and understanding of crystals and their structures. It encompasses the investigation of the internal arrangement of atoms or molecules within a crystal, as well as the symmetrical arrangement of the crystal as a whole. Crystallography is a discipline within mineralogy, chemistry, and physics that relies on the fundamental principles of symmetry, diffraction, and the behavior of light.
In a crystallographic context, a crystal is defined as a solid material whose atoms or molecules are arranged in an ordered, repeating pattern extending in all three dimensions. Crystallographers utilize various techniques, most notably X-ray crystallography, to determine the atomic or molecular structure of crystals by analyzing their diffraction patterns. This involves bombarding the crystal with X-rays and measuring the resulting diffraction pattern, which can be used to infer the arrangement of atoms or molecules within the crystal.
Crystallographic analysis allows researchers to determine various characteristics of crystals, such as their lattice structures, unit cells, space groups, and atomic positions. This information aids in understanding the physical and chemical properties of crystals, as well as their practical applications in numerous fields including materials science, solid-state physics, chemistry, geology, and biology. Crystallography plays a crucial role in the development of new materials, the discovery of novel substances, and the advancement of scientific knowledge in general.
Common Misspellings for CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC
Etymology of CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC
The word "crystallographic" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "krystallos" (κρύσταλλος) meaning "crystal" and "graphē" (γραφή) meaning "writing" or "description". Thus, "crystallographic" literally translates to "the writing or description of crystals".
