NaCl Crystal Cleavage
Description: Video of NaCl crystals being cleaved to show that they break off corresponding to their crystal structure. This demo can be performed live as well.
This demonstration is also available on JCE “Chemistry Comes Alive!” Vol.2 CD-Rom.
Source: JCE “Chemistry Comes Alive!”
Year: 1999 Vol: 76 Page: 1311
Keywords: NaCl Crystal, Crystal structure, Cleavage, Primitive cubic, Razor
Rating: 
Hazard: Some
- Sharps hazard
- Electric shock hazard
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable with guidance
- Moderate failure rate
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Time to effects is low
Difficulty: Medium
- Coordinated procedures required
- Careful manipulations
- Demos in which a display is used
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Sharps container on hand recommended
- Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet required
Class: Crystal Structure, Solid, Physical Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry
Division: General, Material Science Chemistry
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