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How does a Frenkel defect form in an ionic crystal?
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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.
A Frenkel defect forms in an ionic crystal when a single ion is displaced from its normal, regular lattice position.1
This ion migrates into a nearby intersticeāan empty space located between the other atoms or ions in the crystal lattice. This process leaves behind an empty site, known as a vacancy, at the ion's original location. Consequently, the defect consists of a pair comprising the displaced ion in an interstitial position and the resulting vacancy.12