Final answer:
Flux growth is a method used in chemistry to create large gemstones. It involves dissolving the gemstone's components in a flux material and then slowly cooling the mixture. The use of flux allows for the creation of large, high-quality gemstones.
Step-by-step explanation:
Flux growth is a method used in chemistry to create large gemstones. It involves dissolving the gemstone's components in a flux material and then slowly cooling the mixture. As the mixture cools, the gemstone begins to crystallize, growing larger over time.
Flux acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve the components of the gemstone and prevent impurities. It also provides an environment that allows the gemstone to grow in size, as the dissolved components precipitate and solidify. The slow cooling process ensures that the gemstone grows in a controlled manner, resulting in a larger and more uniform crystal structure.
For example, in the growth of synthetic emeralds, a mixture of aluminum oxide and beryllium oxide is dissolved in a flux of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. As the mixture cools, the synthetic emerald crystalizes and grows. The use of flux allows for the creation of large, high-quality synthetic emeralds that can be used in various applications.