Question

Describe the important characteristics of crystalline solids.

Answer 1

1. Definite Geometrical Shape: Crystalline solids have a well-defined geometric shape with a regular arrangement of particles.
2. Sharp Melting Point: They melt at a specific temperature due to strong intermolecular forces.
3. Anisotropy: Their properties vary depending on the direction in which they are measured.
4. Hardness: Crystalline solids are generally hard due to strong inter-particle bonding.
5. Cleavage: They break along specific planes (planes of weakness) in the lattice.
6. High Melting and Boiling Points: Due to strong bonds between particles. (whether ionic, covalent, or metallic).
7. Electrical Conductivity: Depends on bonding; metallic solids conduct, ionic solids conduct when molten or dissolved, and others don’t.
8. Symmetry: Crystals exhibit high symmetry in their structure.
9. Transparency: Many crystalline solids are transparent with specific optical properties.
10. Definite Heat of Fusion: The energy required to melt the solid is definite and characteristic.
11. Low Solubility: Crystalline solids are generally insoluble in most solvents.