Which statement best defines the term 'amorphous' when used to describe a solid?

• A. It describes a solid that can easily change shape under pressure.
• B. It refers to a solid with a highly ordered, repeating crystal lattice structure.
• C. It describes a solid that conducts electricity due to free-moving electrons.
• D. It refers to a solid in which the particles are arranged in a random, non-repeating pattern.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the term 'amorphous' is used to describe the internal structure of a solid.
2. Recall that solids can be broadly classified into crystalline and amorphous based on particle arrangement.
3. Recognize that crystalline solids have particles arranged in a highly ordered, repeating pattern called a crystal lattice.
4. Know that amorphous solids lack this long-range order, meaning their particles are arranged randomly without a repeating pattern.
5. Therefore, the best definition of 'amorphous' is a solid in which the particles are arranged in a random, non-repeating pattern.