Chapter 13: Problem 2

(a) What is crystallization? (b) Cite two properties that may be improved by crystallization.

Short Answer

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Answer: Crystallization is a process of forming solid crystals from a homogeneous solution, widely used to purify substances and prepare materials with desired properties. Two properties that may be improved by crystallization are purity, as it removes impurities and undesired components, and mechanical strength, as the well-ordered lattice structure formed during crystallization generally exhibits better resistance to deformation and fracture.

Step by step solution

A: Definition of Crystallization

Crystallization is a process of formation of solid crystals from a homogeneous solution. It involves the nucleation of particles, followed by the growth of these particles as the solute molecules add themselves to the crystal lattice. The process of crystallization is widely used in industries to purify solid substances, remove impurities, and prepare solid-state materials with desired properties.

B: Two properties that may be improved by crystallization

1. Purity: Crystallization helps in improving the purity of a substance. When a solution containing a desired solute is cooled or evaporated, solute molecules with a lower affinity for the solvent will start to form solid crystals. These crystals can then be separated from the remaining solution, leaving behind impurities and other undesired solute components. 2. Mechanical strength: The process of crystallization helps in forming solid-state materials with a well-ordered crystal lattice structure. Such structures generally exhibit better mechanical strength compared to amorphous materials, as the well-ordered lattice structure gives the material better resistance to deformation and fracture.

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(a) What is crystallization? (b) Cite two properties that may be improved by crystallization.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

A: Definition of Crystallization

B: Two properties that may be improved by crystallization

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