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How are the axes arranged in the hexagonal crystal system?
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crystal
A crystal form of elemental sulfur. Sulfur has an atomic weight of about 32.06 atomic mass units (amu), which means that its molar mass is 32.06 grams.
In the hexagonal crystal system, the arrangement of crystallographic axes is defined by four axes:12
- Horizontal axes: There are three axes of equal length (, , and ) that lie in the same plane and intersect one another at angles of 120°.12
- Vertical axis: The fourth axis () is of a different length and is oriented perpendicular to the plane containing the other three axes.12
This configuration is fundamental to the system's geometry, which is characterized by a primary axis of sixfold symmetry.2