point defect
Quick Summary
A point defect is an imperfection in the regular arrangement of atoms within a crystalline solid. These defects can arise from processes like deformation, rapid cooling, or exposure to high-energy radiation.1
The simplest point defects include:
* Vacancies: An atom is missing from its usual position in the crystal lattice.23
* Interstitials: Extra atoms are squeezed into spaces between the regular lattice sites.3
* Frenkel defects: An ion is displaced from its lattice site to an interstitial position, creating a vacancy and an interstitial.12
* Schottky defects: Two ions of opposite charge leave the lattice, creating two vacancies.12
* Impurity defects: Foreign atoms replace host atoms or occupy interstitial sites, which is crucial for the electrical properties of semiconductors.13
These imperfections significantly influence a crystal's mechanical, electrical, and optical properties.12
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