Coordination number for fcc and NaCl

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In summary, the coordination number for fcc is 12 because metals in this structure have a primitive basis with only one atom in the primitive cell, leading to 12 coordinated atoms. However, in NaCl, which also crystallizes in a fcc lattice, there are two atoms in the primitive cell, resulting in a coordination number of 6. This distinction between lattice and crystal structure explains the difference in coordination numbers.
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Prashasti
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Why is the coordination number for fcc 12, but that in NaCl 6? NaCl crystallises in ccp (or fcc) lattice, then how is it possible?
 
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I'm sorry you are not generating any responses at the moment. Is there any additional information you can share with us? Any new findings?
 
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You have to differentiate between the lattice and the crystal structure. Some metals crystallize in a fcc lattice with a primitive basis, i.e. there is only one atom in the primitive cell. Then you can show that each of this metal atoms is coordinated by 12 other atoms. In NaCl, there are two atoms per primitive cell and this changes the situation. It is still true that e.g. each Na has 12 nearest Na ions in that lattice.
 
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What is the coordination number for fcc structure?

The coordination number for fcc (face-centered cubic) structure is 12. This means that each atom in the structure is surrounded by 12 nearest neighboring atoms.

What is the coordination number for NaCl structure?

The coordination number for NaCl (sodium chloride) structure is 6. This means that each sodium ion is surrounded by 6 chlorine ions and vice versa.

How is the coordination number determined experimentally?

The coordination number can be determined experimentally by various techniques such as X-ray crystallography, neutron diffraction, and scanning tunneling microscopy. These techniques allow for the visualization of the arrangement of atoms in a crystal lattice, thereby determining the coordination number.

How does the coordination number affect the properties of a material?

The coordination number can affect the properties of a material in various ways. For example, a higher coordination number can result in a denser and stronger material. It can also affect the electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as the melting point of a material.

Can the coordination number change for a material?

Yes, the coordination number can change for a material under certain conditions. For example, in some solid-state reactions, the coordination number of atoms can change, leading to the formation of a different crystal structure. Additionally, the coordination number can also change under high pressure or temperature conditions.

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