Monoclinic Cell Rotation for Surface Calculations

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Thread starter SK2
Start date Aug 17, 2016
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Axes Cell Crystal structure Rotation Solid state physics

In summary, the rotation of monoclinic cell axes is the tilt of one of the three axes in a rhombic prism shape, determined by X-ray diffraction techniques. It is significant in understanding the properties of materials and can be controlled through external factors. Monoclinic crystals are unique in their rotation of axes compared to other crystal systems.

Aug 17, 2016

SK2

Dear All,
I have a monoclinic cell with
a=18.7,b=3.55,c=9.069

and beta=134 degrees, angle between a and c. Now I need to make the c axis parallel to z axis for surface calculations, ie to introduce a vacuum. What is the rotation matrix that would do this??
Thank you.

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Aug 17, 2016

M Quack

Depends on what your initial coordinate system is...

1. What is meant by the rotation of monoclinic cell axes?

The rotation of monoclinic cell axes refers to the orientation of the crystal structure of a material in three-dimensional space. In monoclinic crystals, one of the three axes is tilted at an angle to the other two, resulting in a rhombic prism shape. The rotation of the axes refers to the direction and degree of this tilt.

2. How is the rotation of monoclinic cell axes measured?

The rotation of monoclinic cell axes is typically measured using X-ray diffraction techniques. This involves shining a beam of X-rays onto a crystal and measuring the angles and intensities of the diffracted beams. From this data, the orientation of the crystal axes can be determined.

3. What is the significance of monoclinic cell axes rotation in materials science?

The rotation of monoclinic cell axes is an important factor in understanding the physical and mechanical properties of materials. It affects the symmetry and stability of the crystal structure, which can impact properties such as strength, thermal expansion, and electrical conductivity. It is also important in the design and production of materials for specific applications.

4. Can the rotation of monoclinic cell axes be controlled or manipulated?

Yes, the rotation of monoclinic cell axes can be controlled through the use of external stress or temperature changes. This can cause the crystal to undergo a phase transformation, resulting in a different orientation of the axes. In addition, certain techniques such as epitaxial growth can be used to intentionally grow crystals with a specific orientation of the axes.

5. How does the rotation of monoclinic cell axes differ from other crystal systems?

The rotation of monoclinic cell axes is unique to monoclinic crystals and sets them apart from other crystal systems such as cubic, tetragonal, and hexagonal. In these other systems, all three axes are perpendicular to each other, whereas in monoclinic crystals, one axis is tilted. This results in different physical and mechanical properties for monoclinic materials compared to those of other crystal systems.