How are Crystals Formed?

You might think of a crystal as a shining stone. However, a crystal is actually a specific repeated grouping of molecules. As a result, no one crystal looks like the other: there are diverse shapes and colors for this reason.

For instance, a diamond is a crystal is formed by a process called crystallization. Crystals begin to take shape when liquids cool down and harden. The molecules in the liquid combine in a specific pattern, and this pattern is followed until a crystal is formed. Crystals that follow this process include diamonds and emeralds. On the other hand, a crystal can also be formed when the liquid evaporates from a mixture. A salt crystal is created through this process.

If you want to see how a simple crystal is created, you can try making one from home. Place some salt in a bowl, and then add some water to it. Set it aside for one day, and come look at it the next day. You will see tiny cube-shaped crystals. Why does this happen? As we saw earlier in the second crystal-forming method, the water evaporated. Therefore, the molecules inside the salt and water combine into a cluster and form crystals.

An interesting type of crystal includes snowflakes. Snowflakes are ice crystals that are created in clouds after the water freezes. Every snowflake is unique because each snowflake has its own grouping of molecules.

Try looking for different types of crystals and try to find their differences!

Diamonds - a kind of crystal

Picture Source: smithsonianmag.com