Textbook Question
Identify the structure of each of the two unit cells shown in Problem 48 as the rock salt structure, zinc blende structure, fluorite structure, antifluorite structure, or none of these.
Ch.13 - Solids & Modern Materials
Chapter 13, Problem 53c
Classify each of the following as a component of a silicate ceramic, an oxide ceramic, or a nonoxide ceramic. c. MoSi2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the chemical formula given: MoSi_{2}.
Recognize that MoSi_{2} consists of molybdenum (Mo) and silicon (Si).
Understand that silicate ceramics typically contain silicon and oxygen, forming silicate structures.
Note that oxide ceramics are composed of metal oxides, which include oxygen in their structure.
Determine that MoSi_{2} does not contain oxygen, classifying it as a nonoxide ceramic.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Silicate Ceramics
Silicate ceramics are materials primarily composed of silicon and oxygen, often combined with various metal oxides. They are known for their high melting points, chemical stability, and mechanical strength. Common examples include clay and glass, which are widely used in construction and pottery.
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Oxide Ceramics
Oxide ceramics are made from metal oxides, such as alumina (Al2O3) and zirconia (ZrO2). These materials exhibit excellent thermal and chemical stability, making them suitable for high-temperature applications. They are often used in electrical insulators and cutting tools due to their hardness and resistance to wear.
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Nonoxide Ceramics
Nonoxide ceramics include materials that do not contain oxygen in their primary composition, such as carbides, nitrides, and borides. These ceramics are typically characterized by their high hardness, thermal conductivity, and resistance to wear. An example is molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2), which is used in high-temperature applications due to its ability to withstand extreme conditions.