A crystal lattice is the regular, three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a crystalline solid. In this structure, the particles are arranged in a repeating pattern that extends in all directions, giving the crystal its definite shape and unique physical properties.
Key Points about Crystal Lattice:
- Orderly arrangement – Unlike amorphous solids (like glass), crystals have a fixed and repeating internal structure.
- Unit cell – The smallest repeating part of the lattice is called the unit cell, and when repeated in space, it forms the entire lattice.
- Types of crystal lattices – Based on geometry, there are 7 crystal systems (cubic, tetragonal, orthorhombic, hexagonal, rhombohedral, monoclinic, and triclinic).
- Examples –
- Sodium chloride (NaCl) has a cubic lattice.
- Diamond has a tetrahedral lattice.
- Metals like copper and iron also form lattice structures.
- Properties – The arrangement determines hardness, melting point, solubility, and conductivity of the substance.
In simple words: A crystal lattice is like the 3D “scaffolding” or framework inside a crystal that keeps particles arranged in a fixed, repeating pattern.