On atom-atom 'short contact' bonding interactions in crystals.

Area of Science:

• Crystallography
• Chemical Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• The concept of attributing crystalline structural stability to individual atom-atom intermolecular interactions, viewed as stabilizing bonds, is questioned.
• The validity of the bond path concept in this context has been debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To articulate the validity and usefulness of the bond path concept.
• To provide an alternative perspective on crystalline structural stability.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and theoretical discussion.
• Review of crystallographic principles and crystal engineering applications.

Main Results:

• The essay argues for the continued relevance and utility of the bond path concept.
• It supports the application of bond paths in understanding crystal structures.

Conclusions:

• The bond path concept remains a valuable tool in crystallography and crystal engineering.
• This perspective reinforces the utility of bond paths for analyzing and predicting crystalline structures.