Kristalliseerunud

Kristalliseerunud is an Estonian term that translates to "crystallized" in English. It describes a process where a substance transitions from a liquid or amorphous solid state into a solid form composed of crystals. This transformation typically involves the formation of a regular, repeating, three-dimensional structure of atoms, ions, or molecules.

The process of crystallization can occur in various contexts. In chemistry, it is a common method for purifying solid compounds. As a solution cools or evaporates, the dissolved substance becomes supersaturated, leading to the formation of crystal nuclei, which then grow into larger crystals. This selective formation of a crystalline lattice often excludes impurities, which remain in the liquid phase.

In geology, crystallization is a fundamental process in the formation of igneous rocks. Molten rock, or magma, cools and solidifies, allowing minerals to crystallize according to their specific melting points and chemical compositions. The rate of cooling influences the size of the resulting crystals, with slower cooling generally producing larger crystals.

In biology, crystallization can refer to the formation of crystals within living organisms, such as in the formation of bones and teeth from calcium phosphate, or the formation of protein crystals for structural analysis. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a concept or idea that has become clear, definite, and well-formed.