[Encyclios]

Categories and classification of solids

In most cases, the atoms bind themselves according to a crystal lattice or amorphously, without the possibility of moving in space, except for vibration motions (caused by thermal energy). Most of the substances existing in nature are found in the solid crystalline state. Solids that do not have a crystalline structure are called amorphous solids.

The differences between the types of solid derive from the differences between their bonds; consequently, we can classify the solids into two main categories:

• crystalline solids (ionic solid, molecular solid, covalent network solids, and metallic solid);
• amorphous solids (such as common glass) based on how the particles are arranged.