Base-centered orthorhombic

Definition

Base-centered orthorhombic is a type of crystal lattice system characterized by having a rectangular prism shape with two of its faces centered on the base. This lattice is one of the 14 Bravais lattices, which describe the different ways that points can be arranged in three-dimensional space to form a crystal. In this system, each unit cell has three unequal axes that are perpendicular to each other, distinguishing it from other lattice types.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a base-centered orthorhombic lattice, there are two additional lattice points located at the center of the top and bottom faces of the unit cell.
2. This lattice can be described using three axes: a, b, and c, where all angles are 90 degrees and lengths are unequal.
3. Common minerals that exhibit a base-centered orthorhombic structure include barite and olivine.
4. The symmetry of the base-centered orthorhombic lattice allows for certain physical properties like anisotropy, affecting how materials respond to external forces.
5. Base-centered orthorhombic lattices belong to the second category of orthorhombic lattices and have specific point groups associated with their symmetry.

Review Questions

• Compare base-centered orthorhombic lattices with simple cubic lattices in terms of structure and symmetry.
  • Base-centered orthorhombic lattices differ significantly from simple cubic lattices. While simple cubic lattices have equal length axes and only one lattice point at each corner of the cube, base-centered orthorhombic lattices feature three unequal axes and additional lattice points centered on the top and bottom faces. This structural difference leads to varying symmetries; base-centered orthorhombic lattices exhibit a higher level of complexity in their arrangements, which can affect their physical properties compared to simpler cubic structures.
• Discuss how the unique properties of minerals like barite and olivine relate to their base-centered orthorhombic structure.
  • Minerals like barite and olivine possess a base-centered orthorhombic structure, which contributes to their unique physical properties. For instance, the arrangement of atoms within these minerals affects their density, hardness, and cleavage patterns. The specific angles and lengths between the crystallographic axes in these minerals influence how they interact with light and respond to stress. This structural uniqueness helps define not only their appearance but also their stability under various geological conditions.
• Evaluate the impact of base-centered orthorhombic lattice structures on material science applications, particularly in engineering and technology.
  • Base-centered orthorhombic lattice structures have significant implications for material science, especially in engineering and technology. Their unique arrangement leads to anisotropic behavior in mechanical properties, making them suitable for applications where directional strength or stability is required. Understanding how these structures respond to external forces can help engineers design materials that optimize performance under specific conditions. Furthermore, this knowledge is crucial for developing new technologies in fields like electronics and aerospace, where precise material properties can enhance efficiency and durability.

Related terms

Bravais Lattice: A classification of crystal structures based on the symmetry and periodicity of their arrangement in space, consisting of 14 unique types.

Unit Cell: The smallest repeating unit in a crystal lattice that retains the overall symmetry and properties of the entire crystal.

Orthorhombic System: One of the seven crystal systems where all three axes are of different lengths but are perpendicular to each other.