A crystal is a solid substance whose component atoms, molecules, or ions are arranged in an organised repeating pattern that spans all three spatial dimensions. A key step in the crystallisation process is called crystal growth, which involves incorporating additional atoms, ions, or polymer strings into the crystalline lattice's distinctive configuration. Unless a "seed" crystal that was intentionally introduced to initiate the growth was already present, the growth normally follows a first stage of homogeneous or heterogeneous (surface catalysed) nucleation. The process of crystallisation results in a crystalline solid with tightly packed atoms or molecules that are in fixed spatial locations with respect to one another. A definite structural rigidity and a very high resistance to deformation (i.e., changes in shape and/or volume) are features of the crystalline state of matter. Young's modulus and shear modulus of elasticity are both highly valued properties of the majority of crystalline solids. Contrast this with most liquids or fluids, which often demonstrate the ability for macroscopic viscous flow and have a low shear modulus.
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