Step 1: Definition.
Packing efficiency is defined as the percentage of total space in a crystal structure that is actually occupied by the constituent particles (atoms, ions, or molecules). Step 2: General Expression.
\[
\text{Packing Efficiency} = \frac{\text{Volume occupied by particles in the unit cell}}{\text{Total volume of unit cell}} \times 100
\]
Step 3: Example.
In face-centered cubic (FCC) structure:
- 74% of the volume is occupied by spheres.
- 26% of the volume remains vacant (void space). Conclusion:
Packing efficiency determines how closely the particles are packed in different crystal lattice structures.