Q.Refractive index of a solid is observed to have the same value along all directions. Comment on the nature of this solid. Would it show cleavage property?

A property (here refractive index) that is identical in all directions means the solid is isotropic, which is characteristic of amorphous solids. An amorphous solid does not have ordered lattice planes, so on cutting it breaks into **irregul …

Step 1 – Interpret the observation.

The refractive index has the same value along all directions — the solid is isotropic.

Step 2 – Identify the nature.

Isotropy in physical properties is a hallmark of amorphous solids, whose particles have only short-range order, so properties do not depend on direction. (Crystalline solids are anisotropic — properties vary with direction.)

Step 3 – Cleavage behaviour. …

Link direction-independent property $\to$ isotropy $\to$ amorphous. Then reason that clean cleavage needs ordered crystal planes (anisotropic crystalline …

• Concluding "crystalline" — crystalline solids are anisotropic (direction-dependent), so identical properties in all directions indicate the opposite.
• Saying it would cleave; amorphous solids give irregular fracture, not clean cleavage. …