Matrix Methods for Teaching Crystallography

Crystallography, the study of crystal structures and symmetries, is fundamental to materials science, solid-state chemistry, and condensed matter physics. This book presents a comprehensive, matrix-based approach to understanding and calculating the geometric and symmetry properties of crystals, from cubic to triclinic systems.Using metric tensors, vector operations, and matrix representations, readers can compute unit cell volumes, interatomic distances, angles between directions, bonds, and planes, and determine equivalent atomic positions in space groups. Detailed derivations, step-by-step examples, and explicit formulas for all crystal systems make complex calculations accessible and intuitive.Designed for students, educators, and researchers, this text bridges theory and practice, enabling both manual and computational applications, and fostering a deeper understanding of crystal geometry, symmetry, and their influence on material properties.

Autorentext

Hafid Zouihri, Ph.D., is a Professor of Chemistry at Moulay Ismail University. Specializing in crystallography, solid-state chemistry, and materials science, he combines research expertise with decades of teaching experience to guide students and researchers in understanding crystal symmetry and structure.