Question

The total number of atoms in one unit cell of face-centered unit cubic cell is ______ atoms.

(a) 2

(b) 6

(c) 4

(d) 8

This question was addressed to me during an interview for a job.

My doubt is from Solid State topic in section Solid State of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right choice is (c) 4

The explanation is: In face-centered cubic unit cell, atoms are present at each of the corners and at the centre of the face of the cube.

• 8 corners × \(\frac{1}{8}\)th of an atom = 1

• 6 faces × \(\frac{1}{2}\) of an atom = 3

Thus, the total number of atoms in face-centered cubic unit cell: 1+3=4 atoms.