Select the correct statements. (A) Crystalline solids have long range order. (B) Crystalline solids are isotropic. (C) Amorphous solids are sometimes called pseudo solids. (D) Amorphous solids soften over a range of temperatures. (E) Amorphous solids have a definite heat of fusion. Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :
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A key distinction between crystalline and amorphous solids is order. Crystalline solids are ordered (anisotropic, sharp melting point), while amorphous solids are disordered (isotropic, soften over a temperature range).
The question asks us to select the correct statements regarding crystalline and amorphous solids. Let's analyze each statement:
Statement A: Crystalline solids have long range order.
This statement is true. Crystalline solids are characterized by a well-ordered structure that repeats in a long-range order throughout the solid. This long-range periodic arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules is a defining feature of crystalline solids.
Statement B: Crystalline solids are isotropic.
This statement is false. Crystalline solids are anisotropic, meaning that their properties vary with direction when measured along different axes. This occurs due to the ordered arrangement of particles in these solids.
Statement C: Amorphous solids are sometimes called pseudo solids.
This statement is true. Amorphous solids lack a long-range order and, therefore, are sometimes referred to as "pseudo solids" or "supercooled liquids." Their atomic arrangement is similar to that of liquids.
Statement D: Amorphous solids soften over a range of temperatures.
This statement is true. Unlike crystalline solids, which have a sharp melting point, amorphous solids do not and typically soften over a range of temperatures because they have no long-range order.
Statement E: Amorphous solids have a definite heat of fusion.
This statement is false. Amorphous solids lack a definite melting point and heat of fusion because they do not have a long-range order, which makes these thermodynamic measurements indefinite.
Conclusion: The statements (A), (C), and (D) are correct. Therefore, the correct answer is: