On the hypomorphism of ADP crystals

The morphology and symmetry of spheres of ADP crystals has been studied. Faces as well as bands were observed. In contrast to the 2m symmetry as determined from X-ray and neutron diffraction studies, the bands on the spheres displayed a 222 symmetry. It is shown that this reduced symmetry either is the bulk symmetry or is induced by stereospecific interactions at the surface. The influence of several parameters on the stability of the bands and the symmetry of the spheres has been studied. At pH = 6.15 the symmetry reduction was found to be absent.