Question

What is the disadvantage of using a solution growth method for the growth of the crystals?

(a) Rapid growth rates

(b) Simple apparatus

(c) Slow growth rates

(d) Isothermal conditions

I had been asked this question at a job interview.

My question comes from Growth of Single Crystals topic in section Preparative Methods of Solid State Chemistry

Answer 1

Correct option is (c) Slow growth rates

Best explanation: Solution growth methods like the water crystallization, flux growth, hydrothermal method etc, which are used for the growth of the crystals have the disadvantage that it leads to very slow growth rates, face problems of contamination by container or flux. However, the advantage of using such methods are that it allows isothermal conditions with slow growth rates give quality crystals of low defect concentration.