Definitions [2]
Define unit cell.
A basic repeating structural unit of a crystalline solid is called a unit cell.
Define Anisotropy.
The ability of crystalline solids to change values of physical properties when measured in different directions is called anisotropy.
Key Points
Key Points: Classification of Crystalline Solids
| Property | Ionic Solids | Covalent Network Solids | Molecular Solids | Metallic Solids |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Particles | Cations and anions | Covalently bonded atoms | Mono/polyatomic molecules | Metal ions in a sea of electrons |
| Forces | Electrostatic | Covalent bonds | London, dipole-dipole, H-bonding | Metallic bonds |
| Hardness | Hard and brittle | Very hard | Soft | Soft to very hard |
| Melting point | 600–3000°C | 1200–4000°C | Low (−272 to 400°C) | −39 to 3400°C |
| Conductivity | Poor (solid); good (molten/aqueous) | Poor (except graphite; diamond conducts heat) | Poor | Good conductor of heat and electricity |
| Examples | NaCl, CaF₂ | Diamond, silica | Ice, benzoic acid | Na, Mg, Cu, Au |
