Chapter 3, Problem 3.29P

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The number of atoms of each type per unit cell of thorium-dioxide is to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

The most basic repeating structure of any solid is said to be the unit cell consuming least volume. The repeating pattern of unit cells results in a network said to be a lattice.

An atom's coordination number in a unit cell is equal to the number of atoms it touches in the cell.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

Does the unit cell formula is equivalent to the chemical formula of thorium dioxide.

Concept Introduction:

An atom's coordination number in a unit cell is equal to the number of atoms it touches in the cell.

The chemical formula of thorium dioxide is ThO_2.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The coordination number of thorium atom is to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

An atom's coordination number in a unit cell is equal to the number of atoms it touches in the cell.

Interpretation Introduction

(d)

Interpretation:

The coordination number of an oxygen atom is to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

An atom's coordination number in a unit cell is equal to the number of atoms it touches in the cell.

Interpretation Introduction

(e)

Interpretation:

The type of interstitial site occupied by the oxygen atoms should be determined.

Concept Introduction:

There is a vacant space between the constitutional particles in a lattice formed by the repetition of unit cells which is termed as void. The two most common types of voids in 3D structure are octahedral void and tetrahedral void.