COORDINATION NUMBER Meaning and
Definition
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The coordination number refers to the number of atoms or molecules that surround a particular atom in a crystal lattice structure. It is a fundamental concept in solid-state chemistry and materials science.
In a crystal lattice, atoms are arranged in a highly ordered and repeating pattern. Each atom within the lattice is connected to surrounding atoms through chemical bonds. The coordination number indicates how many neighboring atoms are directly bonded to a central atom.
For example, in a simple cubic lattice, each atom has six surrounding neighbors, resulting in a coordination number of 6. In a face-centered cubic lattice, the coordination number is 12, as each atom is bonded to twelve neighboring atoms. Different types of complex structures, such as hexagonal close-packed or body-centered cubic, can have unique coordination numbers as well.
The coordination number is determined by factors such as the size of the atoms, their arrangement in the lattice, and the nature of the bonding between atoms. It plays a crucial role in dictating the physical and chemical properties of materials, including their mechanical strength, electrical conductivity, and reactivity.
Understanding the coordination number is essential when studying the structure-property relationships in materials. It provides valuable insights into the arrangement and bonding of atoms in crystals, contributing to the design and development of new functional materials for various applications in engineering and technology.
Common Misspellings for COORDINATION NUMBER
- xoordination number
- voordination number
- foordination number
- doordination number
- ciordination number
- ckordination number
- clordination number
- cpordination number
- c0ordination number
- c9ordination number
- coirdination number
- cokrdination number
- colrdination number
- coprdination number
- co0rdination number
- co9rdination number
- cooedination number
- cooddination number
- coofdination number
- cootdination number
Etymology of COORDINATION NUMBER
The word "coordination" is derived from the Latin word "coordinare", which means "to arrange or harmonize". In chemistry, coordination refers to the arrangement or organization of atoms, ions, or molecules around a central metal ion.
The term "coordination number" refers to the number of atoms, ions, or molecules that surround a central atom or ion in a complex or coordination compound. This number represents the overall coordination or arrangement of the surrounding species.
Therefore, the etymology of the word "coordination number" is derived from the Latin "coordinare" and the general usage of the term "coordination" in the field of chemistry.
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