Unit Cell
The smallest repeating structural unit of a crystal lattice that generates the entire 3D crystal structure through simple translational repetition.
Governing formula
V_cell = a · (b × c)
SI unit
ų or nm³ (Unit Cell Volume)
In depth
Characterized by three axial lengths (a, b, c) and three interaxial angles (α, β, γ). Unit cells are classified into 14 3D Bravais lattices across primitive, body-centered, face-centered, and base-centered types.
Examples in the real world
The Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) unit cell of aluminum containing 4 effective lattice atoms.