Crystal collective is an emerging field of study focused on understanding how individual crystals interact with one another to form distinct cooperative entities. It is a relatively new field of study and has yet to be fully explored and understood, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we understand materials science and engineering.
In the past, when studying crystals, researchers have focused on individual crystals and how they behave in isolation. There is only so much one can learn by studying individual crystals; it is not until one examines how crystals interact with one another that a more complete understanding of the behaviour of crystals is obtainable. Through the study of crystal collectives, it is possible to understand how different crystals interact with each other, forming distinct cooperative groupings, that result in a whole that is greater than the sum of the parts.
Furthermore, the study of crystal collectives can provide valuable insights into how materials behave in the real world. Scientists have discovered that certain crystal collectives are capable of performing certain functions, due to their cooperative nature. For example, certain crystal collectives are capable of controlling the flow of heat and electricity, or can even change the nature of light. Additionally, scientists have found that certain crystal collectives are able to create self-assembling patterns, as well as to create materials with special properties.
Crystals can be divided into different size classes. The largest class is megacrystals, which range in size from hundreds of millimetres to over a metre in length. The next size class is macrocrystals, which range in size from a few millimetres to several centimetres in length. Finally, the smallest class is nanocrystals, which range in size from a few nanometres to several hundred nanometres in length. Each of these size classes can form different types of crystal collectives, which perform different functions.
For example, crystal collectives made up of macrocrystals can form porous materials, which can be used for insulation or for absorption of sound. Conversely, nanocrystals can be used to form materials that can interact with light, such as lasers or solar collectors. Additionally, megacrystals can be used to create materials with special properties such as enhanced strength, or the ability to conduct electricity.
Through the study of crystal collectives, scientists can further understand the behaviour of materials, and develop new materials with specific properties. New materials developed through the study of crystal collectives could have implications for a wide range of applications, from medical implants to optoelectronics. Furthermore, the study of crystal collectives could give us a more comprehensive understanding of how individual crystals are linked, not just within the collective, but also with the environment in which they exist.
