Solid-State Chemistry

Abstract

The properties of materials is governed by the interactions among its associated sub-units. This chapter will describe the bonding motifs of both crystalline and amorphous solids. Details of common archetypical crystal structures will be given, as well as introductory X-ray crystallography including space group symbolism and X-ray diffraction. Band theory is also provided, which is critical in understanding electrical conductivity and optical properties of crystalline solids. Applications such as superconductivity, fuel cells, and biomaterials are highlighted in this chapter in addition to many others, as we describe the influence of a material's structure on its associated properties.