Which characteristic could distinguish a crystalline solid from an amorphous solid?

• A. Ability to flow like a liquid
• B. Irregular, disordered structure
• C. A regular, repeating arrangement of particles
• D. Lack of a definite melting point

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: A crystalline solid has a highly ordered, repeating arrangement of particles, while an amorphous solid lacks this regular structure and is more disordered.
2. Recognize that the key characteristic of crystalline solids is their long-range order, meaning their particles are arranged in a consistent, repeating pattern throughout the material.
3. Note that amorphous solids do not have this repeating pattern, which leads to different physical properties such as a lack of a sharp melting point.
4. Identify that the ability to flow like a liquid is not a characteristic of crystalline solids; this behavior is more typical of liquids or amorphous solids under certain conditions.
5. Conclude that the distinguishing characteristic of a crystalline solid compared to an amorphous solid is the presence of a regular, repeating arrangement of particles.