Solids are a group of substances with similar physical and chemical properties. They can be grouped into seven crystal systems, including cubic, tetragonal, hexagonal, monoclinic, triclinic, and orthorhombic. Solids can also be grouped according to their crystal systems, which are also called “Bravais lattices.”
Common solid materials
Most of us know that solids can change shape and form structures. A simple example is a Tinker Toy, where the balls are arranged in a particular way to hold them together. These solids are similar to crystals, glass, and polymers. Their shapes depend on the regularity of atom bonding. Solids are composed of different types of molecules, so we need to understand the structure of them before we can use them.
Physical properties of solids
Solids are substances that exhibit definite volume and mass. They also exhibit compact arrangement of their constituent particles and high resistance to change in shape and volume. This is achieved by the strong intermolecular forces that govern solids. In this article, we will discuss the physical properties of solids and discuss how they affect the way they are used. Listed below are the common properties of solids and their properties. Read on to learn more.
Crystalline solids
Solids are classified as either crystalline or amorphous. A crystalline solid consists of atoms or molecules that are covalently bonded together. The solid’s properties are characterized by its regular order and its high melting and boiling points. The differences between crystalline and amorphous solids are explained below. Crystalline solids are rigid, while amorphous ones have no definite structure and are not rigid.
Semiconductors
The term “semiconductor” is often used to describe a solid that conducts electricity. Semiconductors are solids that are composed of atoms whose valence electrons are propelled outward. The promotion of the electrons takes place when a source of heat or light strikes them. In the process, an empty hole is left behind in the valence band. This hole is a mobile charge carrier, capable of moving from one position to the other. This process is often compared to the movement of an empty seat in a packed theater. An empty seat in the middle of the row will be able to move to the end of the row as the other seats are filled with people.
Biomaterials
While biomaterials have been used for more than 2000 years, the field of biomedical engineering only started making real progress with the introduction of PMMA in 1937. Biomaterials are solid bodies that are made of different materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers. The most commonly used biomaterials are polymers, such as urethanes and homopolymers. As these materials are used in the field of medicine, scientists are focusing on solving the problems of toxicity, biological compatibility, and mechanical properties.