There are three states of matter namely solids, liquids and gases. Solids have two states namely amorphous and crystalline form. The particles are arranged with a definite or indefinite geometry. Let’s see how they are different from each other.
Crystalline solids:
In crystalline solids the particles are arranged in a 3 dimensional order. The particles have equal intermolecular forces. They have sharp melting point and are anisotropic. They are called true solids. Example: Benzoic acid, Diamond.
Application of diamond:
- It is widely used in making beautiful jewellery
Amorphous solids:
Amorphous means shapeless. This word is derived from Greek. It has irregular arrangement of solid particles. The intermolecular forces are not equal. Also, the distance between particles varies. They have undefined geometric shape. They are also called supercooled liquids.They are isotropic. Example: Naphthalene, glass
Application of glass:
- It is widely used in construction of building
- It is also used for packaging cosmetics like cosmetics box and packing of food like food jar
To make you understand how crystalline and amorphous solids are different from each other, here are the some of the major differences between crystalline and amorphous:
| Difference between Crystalline and Amorphous | |
|---|---|
| CRYSTALLINE SOLIDS | AMORPHOUS SOLIDS |
| Atoms are arranged in regular 3 dimension | They do not have regular arrangement |
| Sharp melting point | No particular melting point |
| Anisotropic | Isotropic |
| True solid | Pseudo solid |
| Symmetrical | Unsymmetrical |
| More rigid | Less rigid |
| Long range order | Short range order |
| Example: Potassium nitrate, copper | Example: Cellophane, polyvinyl chloride |
These were some important difference between amorphous and crystalline solids. To know differences between other topics in chemistry you can register to BYJU’S or download our app for simple and interesting content. India’s largest k-12 learning app has top-notch teachers from across the nation with excellent teaching skills. Find notes, question papers for other subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Biology and various competitive exams as well. Enjoy learning with great experience. Learning is no more boring with BYJU’S.
Related Links:
| Classification of solids | States of matter |
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