Question

I am curious whether it is possible or not to make any solution of a specific compound into a crystal lattice or into an amorphous solid? I know that crystals form under specific conditions but seem to be very wide spread throughout nature and chemistry labs. Therefore, I am curious if it is possible to turn something that usually is a crystalline structure into an amorphous solid. For example, can sodium pyruvate be naturally found as an amorphous solid or can it be made synthetically into such by some means?

Answer 1

Metals and ionic compounds generally form crystalline solids, while substances consisting of large molecules or restricted movement molecules often form amorphous solids. Some substances can exist in both crystalline and amorphous forms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Metals and ionic compounds typically form ordered, crystalline solids. Substances that consist of large molecules, or a mixture of molecules whose movements are more restricted, often form amorphous solids. For example, candle waxes are amorphous solids composed of large hydrocarbon molecules. Some substances, such as silicon dioxide, can form either crystalline or amorphous solids, depending on the conditions under which it is produced. Also, amorphous solids may undergo a transition to the crystalline state under appropriate conditions.