
Tetragonal crystal system
The tetragonal crystal system is a way to classify certain minerals and crystals based on their shape and internal structure. In this system, the crystals have three dimensions: two are equal in length (forming a square base), and the third is different (height). Imagine a box where the base is a perfect square, but the height is taller or shorter than the sides. The internal arrangement of atoms in tetragonal crystals follows specific symmetry rules, giving these crystals a distinctive, often elongated or square-based appearance. Examples include zircon and rutile.