What is a crystal lattice?

In many solids, particles are arranged in orderly three-dimensional patterns called crystal lattices. This structure is why substances like sodium chloride form cubic crystals and why metals and minerals have characteristic shapes and cleavage patterns. The repeating arrangement strongly influences hardness, melting point, and electrical behavior. Crystallography became a major science in the 20th century, especially after X-ray diffraction revealed atomic structures. Crystal lattices are central to mineralogy, chemistry, and materials science.