Crystal lattice, basis and primitive cell
A Bravais lattice consists of translations R=Σ_i n_i a_i with integer n_i and independent primitive vectors.
Key knowledge
A Bravais lattice consists of translations R=Σ_i n_i a_i with integer n_i and independent primitive vectors. A crystal is a lattice with a repeated atomic basis at positions R+d_α; a primitive cell contains one lattice point, whereas conventional cells may contain several.
Values and equations
R=Σ_i n_i a_i; r_α=R+d_α
- R,r_α,a_i,d_α
- Translation, atomic position, primitive vectors and basis offsets m
- n_i
- Integer cell labels
- i,α
- Primitive-vector and basis indices
Conditions and scope
- Ideal periodic crystal in three dimensions; basis labels atomic motif positions and species.
- A lattice point need not be an atom. Defects and amorphous structure break ideal global periodicity; primitive-vector choices are not unique.
Sources · 1
References
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Evidence and review
Solid State Physics: third-year lecture notes (2012): Chapter 11, definitions 11.1.1–11.1.2, primitive/conventional cells, bcc/fcc examples and basis distinction.
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Entry details
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