The Mystery of How Quasicrystals Form

The news article discusses the mystery surrounding the formation of quasicrystals, a unique class of materials that exhibit an orderly, yet non-repeating atomic arrangement. Quasicrystals are often referred to as the "platypus of materials" due to their unusual properties. The article highlights recent studies that have shed light on how the atoms in quasicrystals organize themselves into these intricate patterns. Researchers have found that the atoms in quasicrystals arrange themselves in a way that minimizes their energy, creating a structure that is neither completely ordered nor completely disordered. The findings suggest that the formation of quasicrystals is a delicate balance between competing forces, where the atoms seek to minimize their energy while maintaining a non-repeating pattern. Understanding the complex mechanisms behind quasicrystal formation is crucial for potential applications, such as the development of new materials with unique properties. The article emphasizes the ongoing scientific interest in unraveling the mystery of quasicrystals, as they continue to challenge our understanding of the fundamental principles governing the organization of matter.