How many atoms are contained in a face-centered cubic unit cell?

Study for the DAT Bootcamp General Chemistry Test. Enhance your skills with detailed questions and explanations. Master exam topics such as atomic structure, chemical reactions, and periodic trends. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

How many atoms are contained in a face-centered cubic unit cell?

Explanation:
In a face-centered cubic unit cell, atoms are at the corners and at the centers of each face. Corner atoms are shared by eight neighboring cells, so each corner contributes 1/8 of an atom. With eight corners, that adds up to 8 × 1/8 = 1 atom. Face-centered atoms are shared by two unit cells, so each contributes 1/2 of an atom. There are six faces, giving 6 × 1/2 = 3 atoms. Total atoms in the unit cell = 1 + 3 = 4. So there are four atoms per FCC unit cell.

In a face-centered cubic unit cell, atoms are at the corners and at the centers of each face. Corner atoms are shared by eight neighboring cells, so each corner contributes 1/8 of an atom. With eight corners, that adds up to 8 × 1/8 = 1 atom. Face-centered atoms are shared by two unit cells, so each contributes 1/2 of an atom. There are six faces, giving 6 × 1/2 = 3 atoms. Total atoms in the unit cell = 1 + 3 = 4. So there are four atoms per FCC unit cell.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy