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EEJ MAIN Chemistry QUESTION #7143
Question 1
A specific compound with the formula $A_{2}B_{3}$ crystallizes in an HCP lattice. Determine which atom constitutes the lattice and the fraction of tetrahedral voids occupied by the other atom.
  • Lattice: A; $\frac{2}{3}$ of Tetrahedral voids occupied by B
  • Lattice: A; $\frac{1}{3}$ of Tetrahedral voids occupied by B
  • Lattice: B; $\frac{2}{3}$ of Tetrahedral voids occupied by A
  • Lattice: B; $\frac{1}{3}$ of Tetrahedral voids occupied by A✔️
Correct Answer Explanation
In an HCP lattice, if there are $n$ atoms of B, the number of tetrahedral voids is $2n$. In the formula $A_2B_3$, the ratio of $A:B$ is $2:3$, which can be written as $\frac{2}{3}:1$. If B forms the lattice ($n$ atoms), then A occupies $2/3$ atoms. The fraction of tetrahedral voids occupied by A is $\frac{\text{atoms of A}}{\text{total tetrahedral voids}} = \frac{2/3}{2} = \frac{1}{3}$.