Question

In the zone melting method _____________ of the charge is melted at any one time. Fill up the correct option for the blank space from the choices given below.

(a) Large part

(b) Small part

(c) Solid part

(d) Anionic part

I have been asked this question during a job interview.

This intriguing question originated from Growth of Single Crystals topic in section Preparative Methods of Solid State Chemistry

Answer 1

Right option is (b) Small part

Easiest explanation: In zone melting method the thermal profile through the furnace is such that only a small part of the charge is melted at any one time. Initially, that part of the charge in contact with the seed crystal is melted. As the boat is pulled through the furnace, oriented solidification onto the seed occurs and at the same time, more of the charge melts.