Confused - Materials question regarding c/a ratio

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the c/a ratio for beryllium, a hexagonal close-packed (HCP) metal. The user expresses confusion about how to derive the c/a ratio from the provided atomic weight, radius, and density. Clarification is provided that the relationship involves the equation a²c = a³(c/a) = (2r)³(c/a), indicating the connection between the atomic radius and the c/a ratio. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the geometric relationships in HCP structures. Overall, the thread aims to clarify the calculation process for the c/a ratio in materials science.
Rajveer97
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
Poster has been reminded to post schoolwork in the Homework Help forums
Hi everyone, first time poster here, I'm studying for a Materials exam, one of my weakest subjects and this question is causing me a lot of pain:

Beryllium (Be) is a HCP metal with an atomic weight of 9 g mol-1 , an atomic radius of 0.112nm and a density of 1850 kg m-3 . Calculate its c/a ratio given that Avogadro’s number is 6.02×1023 mole-1 .

Here's the working after some basic steps
upload_2016-7-7_17-6-34.png

The thing that I don't understand is how this
upload_2016-7-7_17-7-56.png

becomes this
upload_2016-7-7_17-7-31.png

How are there two 2r there now? Where is the (c/a) coming from? I just can think through that, how does one get to that? Any help would be greatly appreciated I'm really stuck!
Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi,
as far as I see
$$a^2c=a^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}=\left ( 2r \right )^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}$$
 
  • Like
Likes Rajveer97
Irene Kaminkowa said:
Hi,
as far as I see
$$a^2c=a^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}=\left ( 2r \right )^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}$$

That seems to be the only possible answer, thanks! :)
 
Back
Top