Question

The three-dimensional graph of lattice points which sets the pattern for the whole lattice is called (1) unit cell (2) crystal lattice (3) simple latticc (4) space lattice

Short answer

The answer is (1) unit cell.

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Question

The problem asks for the term used to describe the three-dimensional graph of lattice points that sets the pattern for the whole lattice.

- Identify Key Terms

Identify the key terms: three-dimensional graph of lattice points and pattern for the whole lattice.

- Evaluate Each Option

Compare the key terms with the definitions of each option:1) Unit cell: The smallest repeating unit in a crystal lattice that shows the entire structure’s symmetry.2) Crystal lattice: A three-dimensional structure of atoms or molecules packed in a repetitive pattern.3) Simple lattice: A basic repetitive structure in which each point has identical surroundings.4) Space lattice: A three-dimensional arrangement of points coinciding with atom positions.

- Match Definition

The term that matches 'three-dimensional graph of lattice points that sets the pattern for the whole lattice' is 'unit cell' since it is the fundamental component that repeats to form the entire lattice structure.

- Confirm and Select

Confirm that 'Unit cell' correctly describes the three-dimensional pattern-setting lattice points and choose option (1).

Key concepts

crystal lattice

A crystal lattice is a three-dimensional structure composed of atoms or molecules arranged in a repetitive pattern. This arrangement extends throughout the entire crystal, creating a consistent and predictable structure. To visualize a crystal lattice, imagine marbles placed in a regularly spaced, three-dimensional grid.

The points where the marbles touch represent the positions of atoms or molecules in the lattice.

• A crystal lattice looks the same at different points due to its repeating nature.
• It has a significant role in defining the physical properties of the material, such as its strength, optical properties, and electrical conductivity.
• Understanding crystal lattices helps in fields like materials science, chemistry, and solid-state physics.

Each crystal lattice can be broken down into smaller, repeating units known as unit cells, which we'll discuss in further detail.

space lattice

A space lattice is a three-dimensional arrangement of points that defines the positions of atoms or molecules in a crystal. This lattice sets the structure's entire pattern, with each point corresponding to an atom or a group of atoms.

Visualizing a space lattice can be helpful for understanding the layout of a crystal.

• Think of a space lattice as a mathematical framework that describes the periodic arrangement of atoms in space.
• It's crucial for describing how atoms are situated relative to one another in a solid material.
• Understanding space lattices helps predict the physical and chemical properties of crystalline materials.

One can think of the space lattice as the skeleton of a crystal structure, providing a scaffold that shows where the repeating patterns occur.

lattice points

Lattice points are the individual positions that form a space lattice. These points represent precise locations where an atom, ion, or molecule resides within the crystal.

The positions of these lattice points play a key role in understanding the overall structure of a crystal lattice.

• Lattice points are crucial in determining the symmetry and geometry of the crystal lattice.
• They can also help explain the arrangement and bonding of atoms within the material.
• When visualizing lattice points, it's helpful to think of them as the corners of a three-dimensional grid.

By studying lattice points, we can gain insights into how atoms are organized within a crystal and how this organization impacts the material's properties.