What is the difference between amorphous and crystalline forms?
Difference between crystalline solids and amorphous solids:
| Crystalline solids | Amorphous solids |
|---|---|
| Crystalline solids have definite and regular geometry and have a long range as well as short range order of constituent particles. | In case of amorphous solids, the particles in the constituent are arranged irregularly. They do not have any definite geometry and have short range order. |
| Crystalline solids possess high melting points. | They are devoid of sharp melting points. |
| External regularity is present when crystalline solids are formed. | No external regularity is seen when amorphous solids are formed. |
| They give a clean surface after cleavage with a knife. | Usually, the amorphous solids exhibit irregular cut. |
| They have the definite heat of fusion. | Amorphous solids do not possess any particular heat of fusion. |
| Crystalline solids are very rigid and their molecules cannot be deformed by mild distorting force. | Amorphous solids do not exhibit rigidity. Deformation could be done by bending or compressing them. |
| Crystalline solids are considered true solid. | Amorphous solids are considered as supercooled liquids or also pseudo solids. |
| Crystalline solids display anisotropism. | Amorphous solids display isotropism. |