What does orthorhombic mean?
The term 'orthorhombic' refers to a specific type of crystal structure, characterized by a unit cell that is an orthorhombic prism. This means that the crystal has three axes of different lengths, but all at right angles to each other. The orthorhombic crystal structure is commonly found in minerals, and it can be identified using techniques such as X-ray diffraction. The term 'orthorhombic' is derived from the Greek words 'orthos', meaning 'right', and 'rhombos', meaning 'diamond-shaped'. In crystallography, the orthorhombic crystal structure is one of the seven main crystal systems, and it is an important concept in understanding the properties and behavior of minerals. The orthorhombic crystal structure is also found in some synthetic materials, such as ceramics and glass. Overall, the term 'orthorhombic' is a fundamental concept in crystallography and materials science, and it has important implications for our understanding of the properties and behavior of materials.
adjective
Having a crystal structure in which the unit cell is an orthorhombic prism, with three axes of different lengths, but all at right angles to each other.
- 1. Having a crystal structure in which the unit cell is an orthorhombic prism.
"The mineral was found to have an orthorhombic crystal structure, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction."
"The mineral was found to have an orthorhombic crystal structure, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction."
"The ceramic material had an orthorhombic crystal structure, which gave it unique mechanical properties."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of orthorhombic
The term 'orthorhombic' is derived from the Greek words 'orthos', meaning 'right', and 'rhombos', meaning 'diamond-shaped'. In crystallography, the orthorhombic crystal structure is one of the seven main crystal systems, and it is an important concept in understanding the properties and behavior of minerals.
Usage notes
The term 'orthorhombic' is commonly used in crystallography and materials science to describe a specific type of crystal structure. It is an important concept in understanding the properties and behavior of minerals and synthetic materials.