Confused - Materials question regarding c/a ratio

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the c/a ratio for Beryllium using its atomic weight, atomic radius, and density. The working steps are shown, but there is confusion about the presence of two 2r terms and the (c/a) ratio. The solution is explained as using the equation a^2c = a^3 * (c/a) and substituting in the values for the atomic radius. The conversation ends with the confirmation of the solution.
  • #1
Rajveer97
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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
 
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  • #2
Hi,
as far as I see
$$a^2c=a^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}=\left ( 2r \right )^3\cdot \frac{c}{a}$$
 
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Likes Rajveer97
  • #3
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! :)
 

Related to Confused - Materials question regarding c/a ratio

1. What is the c/a ratio in materials and why is it important?

The c/a ratio, also known as the c-axis to a-axis ratio, is the ratio between the length of the crystal's c-axis and its a-axis. It is an important measurement in materials science because it affects the crystal structure, properties, and behavior of a material.

2. How is the c/a ratio determined?

The c/a ratio can be determined through various techniques such as X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and spectroscopy. These methods analyze the crystal's atomic arrangement and calculate the ratio between the c-axis and a-axis lengths.

3. How does the c/a ratio affect mechanical properties of a material?

The c/a ratio can influence the mechanical properties of a material, such as its strength, ductility, and hardness. A lower c/a ratio can result in a more compact crystal structure and stronger interatomic bonds, leading to higher mechanical strength.

4. Can the c/a ratio be changed or controlled?

Yes, the c/a ratio of a material can be modified through various methods such as heat treatment, alloying, and mechanical deformation. These processes can alter the atomic arrangement and change the c/a ratio, resulting in different material properties.

5. What are some examples of materials with different c/a ratios?

The c/a ratio can vary greatly among different materials. For example, metals such as copper have a very low c/a ratio of 0.86, while ceramics like alumina have a higher ratio of 1.0. Other examples include minerals like quartz with a c/a ratio of 1.26 and carbon nanotubes with a ratio of 2.0.

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