Crystal structure databases

Crystal structure databases are specialized collections that store detailed 3D arrangements of atoms within crystalline materials. These databases provide researchers with precise information about how atoms are organized in various substances, such as minerals, metals, and pharmaceuticals. By analyzing this data, scientists can understand material properties, design new compounds, and improve existing ones. Key examples include the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) and the Protein Data Bank (PDB), which facilitate discoveries across chemistry, biology, and materials science. In essence, these databases are vital tools for advancing research by offering accurate, accessible atomic-level structural information.