What is the lattice constant of a zincblende structure with two types of atoms?

In summary, we have a material with a zincblende structure containing atoms A (group V) with a radius of 2.5 Å and atoms B (group III) with a radius of 1.6 Å. The lattice constant of this material can be calculated using the formula (4/3)^1/2*(r1+r2), giving a value of 4.73 Å. The volume density of valence electrons is 8/((4.73*10^-8)^3) = 7.56*10^22 cm^3, and the surface density of B atoms on the (110) plane is 4/(sqrt2(4.73
  • #1
orangeincup
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Homework Statement


A material contains two types of atoms (A and B) in a zincblende structure. Atom A is group V with a hard sphere radius of 2.5 Å. Atom B is group III with a hard sphere radius of 1.6 Å.
(a) What is the lattice constant of this material assuming that nearest neighbour atoms touch? (working on this one right now)
(b) What is the volume density of valence electrons in this material?
(c) What is the surface density of B atoms on the (110) plane in this material?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



a) [/B]Since it's a face centered structure it should have 8X 1/8 + 6* 1/2 atoms, so 4
Is it correct to say ( r1+r2 ) *4 = my lattice constant for A?
 
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  • #2
orangeincup said:

Homework Statement


A material contains two types of atoms (A and B) in a zincblende structure. Atom A is group V with a hard sphere radius of 2.5 Å. Atom B is group III with a hard sphere radius of 1.6 Å.
(a) What is the lattice constant of this material assuming that nearest neighbour atoms touch? (working on this one right now)
(b) What is the volume density of valence electrons in this material?
(c) What is the surface density of B atoms on the (110) plane in this material?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



a) [/B]Since it's a face centered structure it should have 8X 1/8 + 6* 1/2 atoms, so 4
Is it correct to say ( r1+r2 ) *4 = my lattice constant for A?

No it is not right. If there are 4 units in a cube, how can the side of the cube 4 times the interatomic distance?
this helps http://www.ehow.com/how_8721263_determine-lattice-parameter-zincblende.html
 
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  • #3
a) (4/3)^1/2*(1.6+2.5) = 4.73 A

b) Volume density of valence electrons is 8/((4.73*10^-8)^3) = 7.56*10^22 cm^3

c) 4/(sqrt2(4.73*10^-8)^2) = 1.26*10^15 atoms/cm^3
 
  • #4
orangeincup said:
a) (4/3)^1/2*(1.6+2.5) = 4.73 A

b) Volume density of valence electrons is 8/((4.73*10^-8)^3) = 7.56*10^22 cm^3
How many valence electrons are there in one AB unit? How many units are there in the unit cell?
orangeincup said:
c) 4/(sqrt2(4.73*10^-8)^2) = 1.26*10^15 atoms/cm^3
The surface density is asked, it has atoms/cm^2 unit.
How did you get that formula?
 
  • #5
ehild said:
How many valence electrons are there in one AB unit? How many units are there in the unit cell?

The surface density is asked, it has atoms/cm^2 unit.
How did you get that formula?
4 *(1/4) + 2*(1/2) + 2*1=4?
ehild said:
How many valence electrons are there in one AB unit? How many units are there in the unit cell?

The surface density is asked, it has atoms/cm^2 unit.
How did you get that formula?

I confused it with a volume density formula.

4/(4.73*10^-8)^3) = 3.78*10^22 cm^3 = volume density

sqrt2/((4.73*10^-8)^2)=6.32*10^14 surface density
 
Last edited:

Related to What is the lattice constant of a zincblende structure with two types of atoms?

What is the "Lattice constant problem"?

The "Lattice constant problem" refers to the challenge of accurately determining the lattice constant, or the distance between atoms, in a crystal structure. This is an important measurement in materials science and can impact various properties of the material.

Why is the lattice constant important?

The lattice constant is important because it affects the physical, mechanical, and electronic properties of a material. It can impact factors such as strength, conductivity, and thermal expansion, making it a crucial parameter to accurately measure.

How is the lattice constant measured?

The lattice constant can be measured using various experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, and scanning probe microscopy. These techniques involve analyzing the diffraction patterns or surface features of a crystal to determine the spacing between atoms.

What are the factors that affect the accuracy of lattice constant measurements?

There are several factors that can impact the accuracy of lattice constant measurements, including sample preparation, crystal defects, and instrumental limitations. The type of crystal and the measurement technique used can also affect the accuracy of the results.

What are some applications of accurate lattice constant measurements?

Accurate lattice constant measurements are crucial in materials science and engineering, where they are used to understand and predict the properties and behavior of materials. This information is valuable in fields such as materials design, semiconductor technology, and nanotechnology.

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