Polycrystalline - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Polycrystalline describes a material composed of many small crystals or grains, often with varying orientations. It is commonly used in metals, ceramics, and semiconductors, contrasting with single-crystal structures.
Definition:
Composed of multiple small crystals, often used to describe materials like metals or ceramics.
Synonyms:
multicrystalline, granular, crystalline aggregate
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
monocrystalline, amorphous
Common Collocations:
polycrystalline structure, polycrystalline silicon, polycrystalline diamond
Derivatives:
polycrystallinity, polycrystal
Usage Tips:
Use "polycrystalline" to describe materials with many tiny crystals, not a single large one.
Common Phrases:
polycrystalline solar cells, polycrystalline diamond tools, polycrystalline metal alloys
Etymology:
From Greek "poly-" (many) + "crystalline" (relating to crystals), meaning "many crystals."
Examples:
- 1. The metal has a polycrystalline structure under the microscope.
- 2. Polycrystalline silicon is commonly used in solar panels.
- 3. The gemstone appeared cloudy due to its polycrystalline nature.
- 4. Scientists study polycrystalline materials for their unique properties.