ScienceAugust 18, 2026
crystallography
kris-tuh-LOG-ruh-fee
Definition
The experimental science of determining the arrangement of atoms in crystalline solids.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek words 'krystallos' (clear ice/crystal) and 'graphein' (to write/draw). It entered English in the 19th century to describe the scientific study and description of crystal structures.
In the news
The article uses X-ray crystallography to visualize the atomic structure and precise bond distances of the synthesized uranium-cobalt complex. This technique provides the empirical evidence needed to confirm that the new record-breaking bond distances were achieved.
Uranium complex smashes record for consecutive bonds between atoms
Read the full article ↗Chemistry World