Crystal Definition

Chemistry Glossary Definition of Crystal

quartz crystal
Pixabay
by
Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.
Updated March 08, 2017

Definition of Crystal:

A substance in which the constituent atoms, molecules, or ions are packed in a regularly ordered, repeating three-dimensional pattern. Most crystals are solids.

Examples of Crystals:

quartz, rock candy, halite

Return to the Chemistry Glossary Index