Should the # of atoms in a unit cell be considered to find the % volume change?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the difference in volume between two unit cell structures, BCC and FCC. The question was initially unclear, leading to confusion about the inclusion of the number of atoms per unit cell. However, it is clarified that the question refers to the change in volume for the same amount of iron, not just the difference in unit cell volume. This would result in a 1.18% increase in density.
  • #1
catlip
1
0
Homework Statement
Iron (Fe) undergoes an allotropic transformation at 912°C: upon heating from a BCC (α phase) to an FCC (γ phase). Accompanying this transformation is a change in the atomic radius of Fe—from RBCC = 0.12584 nm to RFCC = 0.12894 nm—and, in addition, a change in density (and volume). Compute the percentage volume change associated with this reaction. Indicate a decreasing volume by a negative number.
Relevant Equations
V=a^3
First of all, I don't think the question was clear enough. Therefore, I had to assume they are referring to the volume of the unit cell.
V=a^3, side length a
aBCC=2R√2, aFCC=4√3/3R
%change=(VFCC-VBCC)/VBCC
I thought this was right until I checked with others who did this:
Screenshot 2021-01-30 144735.png

so the only difference is including the number of atoms per unit cell (4 and 2). But wouldn't this actually be the %change in density?
 
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  • #2
The question is written a little loosely, but it clearly means the change in volume for the same amount of iron (whether expressed as moles or mass or, as above, volume per atom). This is not the same as the difference in the volume of the unit cell, because the unit cell contains a different number of atoms for the two structures. Density is inversely proportional to volume, so the density increases by (approximately) 1.18%.
 

1. What is a unit cell?

A unit cell is the smallest repeating unit of a crystal lattice structure. It can be described as a three-dimensional box that contains a specific number of atoms arranged in a specific pattern.

2. Why is the number of atoms in a unit cell important?

The number of atoms in a unit cell is important because it determines the overall structure and properties of a material. Different arrangements of atoms in a unit cell can result in different crystal structures and physical properties.

3. How does the number of atoms in a unit cell affect the volume of a material?

The number of atoms in a unit cell does not directly affect the volume of a material. However, it can indirectly impact the volume through its influence on the crystal structure and packing density of the material.

4. Should the number of atoms in a unit cell be considered when calculating the percent volume change?

Yes, the number of atoms in a unit cell should be considered when calculating the percent volume change. This is because changes in the number of atoms in a unit cell can result in changes in the overall volume of the material.

5. How can the number of atoms in a unit cell be determined?

The number of atoms in a unit cell can be determined through various experimental techniques, such as X-ray crystallography or electron microscopy. It can also be calculated using the known crystal structure and unit cell dimensions of a material.

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