Discover the Fascinating Difference Between Glass and Quartz!

What is the difference between glass and quartz, even though they both are composed of SiO2?

(a) Glass is amorphous, while quartz is crystalline.

(b) Glass is denser than quartz.

(c) Glass is formed from igneous rocks, while quartz is sedimentary.

(d) Glass is softer than quartz.

Final answer: Glass and quartz, both composed of SiO2, differ in their molecular structure.

Answer:

The main difference between glass and quartz, even though they both are composed of SiO2, lies in their molecular structure and state of matter.

Glass, an amorphous solid, results from rapidly cooled SiO2 and has a random structure, while quartz, having a crystalline structure, features a three-dimensional, regular silicon-oxygen network.

Glass, or amorphous silica, results from rapid cooling of molten SiO2 and forms an amorphous solid. The silicon-oxygen tetrahedra in a glass have a random arrangement, typical of supercooled liquids. This irregular structure imparts glass with key properties, such as its transparency to visible and ultraviolet light and its resistance to fractures from rapid temperature changes. On the other hand, quartz, or crystalline silicon dioxide, is a covalent network solid. Its silicon atoms are linked to four oxygen atoms by single bonds, forming a three-dimensional silicon-oxygen network. This regular structure makes quartz hard and brittle. Quartz also possesses a refractive property that makes it suitable for applications such as jewelry and frequency control in radio transmitters.

Therefore, in the context of your question, (a) Glass is amorphous while quartz is crystalline would be the most accurate choice.