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gracy
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what is definition of closed packing?a close packing plane is a plane that the atoms cannot be packed any closer?
Closed Packing: Definition & Planes
- Thread starter gracy
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- Closed Definition Planes
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the definition of closed packing, particularly in relation to the arrangement of atoms as spheres in both three-dimensional and two-dimensional contexts. Participants explore the implications of the term "close packing" and its geometric significance.
Discussion Character
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants seek clarification on the definition of closed packing and its relation to close packing planes, suggesting that atoms cannot be packed closer together.
- There is a distinction made between "close packing" and "closed packing," with some participants asserting that the term refers to the arrangement of spheres in three-dimensional space.
- One participant questions whether the definition necessitates that atoms be considered as spheres, prompting further exploration of the geometric context.
- Participants discuss the existence of cubic close packing and hexagonal close packing as specific arrangements of spheres, noting that these configurations lead to crystal structures.
- There is an inquiry into the application of close packing in two-dimensional arrangements, with some participants affirming that it can indeed be applied in 2D, despite the common focus on 3D crystal lattices.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying interpretations of the terms "closed packing" and "close packing," with no consensus reached on a singular definition. The discussion includes both agreement on the geometric principles involved and differing views on the necessity of considering atoms as spheres.
Contextual Notes
Some limitations include the ambiguity surrounding the definitions of closed packing versus close packing, as well as the implications of treating atoms as spheres versus other shapes. The discussion also highlights the potential for confusion when transitioning between 2D and 3D contexts.