The Molecular Tactics of a Crystal

William Thomson Kelvin

• Publisher: Science & Technology Publishing
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9782528114438
• Topic: Physical Sciences
• Subtopic: Biochemistry

The Molecular Tactics of a Crystal by Sir William T. (Thomas) Brande is a pioneering scientific treatise that delves into the intricate and fascinating world of crystallography and molecular structure. First published in the late 19th century, this work explores the fundamental principles that govern the formation, growth, and behavior of crystals at the molecular level. Brande meticulously examines the forces and interactions that dictate how individual molecules arrange themselves into the ordered, repeating patterns characteristic of crystalline solids. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of crystallography, tracing the evolution of scientific thought from early observations of natural crystals to the sophisticated theories of molecular arrangement that emerged in the Victorian era. Brande discusses the geometric and mathematical principles underlying crystal symmetry, lattice structures, and the classification of crystals into various systems based on their physical properties and internal organization. Through detailed descriptions and illustrative diagrams, The Molecular Tactics of a Crystal elucidates the processes by which crystals nucleate and grow, the role of environmental factors such as temperature and pressure, and the significance of defects and impurities in influencing crystal morphology. Brande also explores the broader implications of crystallography for fields such as mineralogy, chemistry, and materials science, highlighting the ways in which an understanding of molecular tactics can inform the synthesis of new materials and the development of advanced technologies. Written in a clear and engaging style, the book is both accessible to general readers with an interest in science and invaluable to students and researchers seeking a deeper understanding of the molecular underpinnings of crystalline matter. The Molecular Tactics of a Crystal stands as a testament to the enduring fascination of crystals and the profound insights that can be gained by studying the invisible forces that shape the natural world.

Table of contents

• THE MOLECULAR TACTICS OF A CRYSTAL
• ON THE MOLECULAR TACTICS OF A CRYSTAL By LORD KELVIN, P.R.S.