The number of nearest neighbors (atoms that make contact) around each atom in a face-centered cubic lattice of a metal is
A) 2.
B) 4.
C) 6.
D) 8.
E) 12.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice, each atom has 12 nearest neighbors. This is because, in addition to the six nearest neighbors in the same cubic layer, each atom also contacts four atoms in the layer above and four in the layer below, totaling twelve.

The Number of Nearest Neighbors (Atoms That Make Contact) Around