Chapter 12, Problem 93E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

In Rb₃C₆₀ crystal, which of the octahedral and tetrahedral sites are occupies by atoms should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

In face-centered cubic arrangement constituent particles are present at each corner of the unit cell and also at the center of all the six faces.

In close packing arrangement of two kinds of voids are formed between constituent particles – tetrahedral and octahedral. Tetrahedral voids have four adjacent particles while octahedral voids have six adjacent particles.

Number of tetrahedral and octahedral voids in a unit cell containing N particles is 2N and N respectively.