Question

What is the coordination number in a Hexagonal Close-Packed (hcp) structure?

• A. 8
• B. 10
• C. 12
• D. 14

Hint:

In close-packed structures, such as FCC and HCP, the coordination number is 12.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In a Hexagonal Close-Packed (hcp) structure, the coordination number is 12. This means that each atom is surrounded by 12 neighboring atoms: 6 within the same plane and 3 each above and below the central atom. This configuration results in highly efficient packing, maximizing the number of nearest neighbors around each atom and contributing to the stability of the hcp structure.