Difference between revisions of "Crystal growing"
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| − | * [[Sodium chloride]] is somewhat difficult to grow in large crystals due to the fact that its solubility is only slightly affected by the temperature. However | + | * [[Sodium chloride]] is somewhat difficult to grow in large crystals due to the fact that its solubility is only slightly affected by the temperature, but not impossible. Simply introducing a seed crystal in a large volume of supersaturated NaCl will yield some pretty square crystals. However it takes a while to grow large crystals. |
* [[Sulfur]] crystals can be grown from hot [[toluene]] or [[xylene]]. [[Carbon disulfide]] can also be used as a solvent, though it's harder to find than the former two. | * [[Sulfur]] crystals can be grown from hot [[toluene]] or [[xylene]]. [[Carbon disulfide]] can also be used as a solvent, though it's harder to find than the former two. | ||
Revision as of 18:25, 25 August 2016
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Crystal growing is the hobby of producing crystals of various compounds. Crystals may be grown for other purposes, such as X-ray crystallography, but the amateur chemist is often interested in the aesthetic appeal.
Crystal growing can also be used for obtaining very pure chemical compounds.
Contents
Recommended compounds
Beginner
- Copper(II) sulfate crystals can be grown from supersaturated solution. CuSO4 crystals are the most popular in crystal growing.
- Iodine can be sublimed in a closed vessel, and it will form deposits of purple to black crystals in the vessel when cooled. These crystals are small and fragile, but highly presentable. (orthorhombic, Cmca)
- Phthalic anhydride forms wiry, needle-like crystals when the vapor is allowed to condense. Phthalic acid can be used, and this will form phthalic anhydride in the process. Thicker crystals can be grown from a melt. (orthorhombic, Pna21)
- Salicylic acid crystals form rapidly when a methanolic solution is diluted with water. These crystals can grow to impressive sizes. (monoclinic, P21/c)
- Sucrose can be used to grow rock candy. (monoclinic, P21)
Intermediate
- Sodium chloride is somewhat difficult to grow in large crystals due to the fact that its solubility is only slightly affected by the temperature, but not impossible. Simply introducing a seed crystal in a large volume of supersaturated NaCl will yield some pretty square crystals. However it takes a while to grow large crystals.
- Sulfur crystals can be grown from hot toluene or xylene. Carbon disulfide can also be used as a solvent, though it's harder to find than the former two.
- Terbium acetate crystals are colorless but fluoresce bright green under ultraviolet light. (triclinic, P-1)
