Aluminium has no negatively charged particles?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the misconception regarding Schottky defects in pure aluminium. A Schottky defect involves the simultaneous absence of both an anion and a cation, which cannot occur in pure aluminium as it lacks negatively charged particles. The participants clarify that while aluminium contains electrons, it does not have free anions or cations necessary for a Schottky effect to manifest. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of defects in metallic structures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Schottky defects in solid-state physics
  • Basic knowledge of aluminium's atomic structure and electron configuration
  • Familiarity with concepts of cations and anions
  • Knowledge of the Hall effect and its implications in conductive materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of Schottky defects in various materials
  • Study the electron configuration of metals, focusing on aluminium
  • Learn about the Hall effect and its significance in materials science
  • Explore the implications of defects in metal conductivity and performance
USEFUL FOR

Students in materials science, physicists studying solid-state phenomena, and researchers interested in the properties of metals and their defects.

FoundAlaska
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Q: "A graduate student tells you that he has observed a Schottky defect in a sample of pure aluminium. Explain why it may take a long time for this graduate student to get his Ph.D"

A: "Pure aluminium has no negatively charged particles, so a Schottky effect can not occur."

So I know a Schottky effect is when both an anion (-) and a cation (+) disappear together out of a material (both because it has to remain neutral). What I don't understand is why aluminium does not have negatively charged particles. It does have electrons so no I'm just not following here.. Can anyone explain this to me?
 
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FoundAlaska said:
Q: "A graduate student tells you that he has observed a Schottky defect in a sample of pure aluminium. Explain why it may take a long time for this graduate student to get his Ph.D"

A: "Pure aluminium has no negatively charged particles, so a Schottky effect can not occur."

So I know a Schottky effect is when both an anion (-) and a cation (+) disappear together out of a material (both because it has to remain neutral). What I don't understand is why aluminium does not have negatively charged particles. It does have electrons so no I'm just not following here.. Can anyone explain this to me?
Schottky defect or Schottky effect?
Based on your question, probably the defect.

Where do you expect anions or cations in a sample of pure Al, where all atoms are the same?

Aluminium has electrons, of course, but does it have many free electrons moving around?
Hint: What do you see as hall effect?
 

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