Crystalline systems are physical systems in which constituent particles (atoms, ions, or molecules) are arranged in a periodic lattice that exhibits long-range translational order. They are characterized by discrete symmetry operations described by space groups, with unit cells repeating periodically in one, two, or three dimensions. This periodicity gives rise to well-defined Brillouin zones, phonon dispersion relations, and electronic band structures, which critically determine mechanical, optical, thermal, and electronic properties. Crystalline systems serve as fundamental models in condensed matter physics for studying phase transitions, defects (dislocations, vacancies), and emergent phenomena such as superconductivity and ferroelectricity.
Metal oxide materials with nanoscale pores have been applied and studied in a wide range of fields, including as catalysts, adsorption and separation materials, and energy materials. Among them, single-crystalline nanoporous ...
Nanomaterials
Aug 18, 2025
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A team of scientists from Korea and Japan has discovered a new type of crystal that can "breathe"—releasing and absorbing oxygen repeatedly at relatively low temperatures. This unique ability could transform the way we develop ...
Condensed Matter
Aug 15, 2025
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In a new study published in Nature Physics, scientists have achieved the first experimental observation of phonon angular momentum in chiral crystals.
Crystallization, a fundamental process in nature, hinges on two distinct stages: nucleation and growth. The latter plays a pivotal role in shaping the morphology, size, and purity of crystalline materials, making it a focus ...
Nanophysics
Jul 29, 2025
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Crystals and glasses have opposite heat-conduction properties, which play a pivotal role in a variety of technologies. These range from the miniaturization and efficiency of electronic devices to waste-heat recovery systems, ...
General Physics
Jul 28, 2025
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Solar cells and computer chips need silicon layers that are as perfect as possible. Every imperfection in the crystalline structure increases the risk of reduced efficiency or defective switching processes.
Condensed Matter
Jul 22, 2025
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Twisted materials—known as moiré structures—have revolutionized modern physics, emerging as today's "alchemy" by creating entirely new phases of matter through simple geometric manipulation. The term "moiré" may sound familiar—it ...
Nanophysics
Jul 9, 2025
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Many displays found in smartphones and televisions rely on thin-film transistors (TFTs) made from indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) to control pixels. IGZO offers high transparency due to its large bandgap (the gap existing ...
Optics & Photonics
Jul 9, 2025
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For over two decades, physicists have been working toward implementing quantum light storage—also known as quantum memory—in various matter systems. These techniques allow for the controlled and reversible mapping of light ...
Optics & Photonics
Jul 9, 2025
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"Space ice" contains tiny crystals and is not a completely disordered material like liquid water, as previously assumed, according to a new study by scientists at UCL (University College London) and the University of Cambridge.
Astrobiology
Jul 7, 2025
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