Book 27, Question 26
How does a crystal begin to grow?
A crystal begins when a few atoms or molecules in a liquid or gas happen to bump together in the right pattern and stick.
This tiny starter group is called a nucleus. Once it forms, more particles attach to it layer by layer, and it grows. Dust specks, scratches, or rough surfaces can give particles a place to start, which is why crystals often begin on edges and corners.