Do molecules in the solid state arrange themselves into a crystal lattice?
1 Answer
Apr 15, 2015
Yes, most molecules in the solid state arrange themselves into a crystal lattice.
Explanation:
A lattice is a regular arrangement of particles, and these can be atoms, ions, or molecules.
Perhaps the most common molecule with a crystal lattice is water.
Water molecules arrange themselves into an open array that is responsible for the unusual density of ice.
Iodine molecules solidify into a lattice.
Even Dry Ice (solid carbon dioxide) forms a crystal lattice.
The list goes on.