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In this contribution we have considered the main items of the history of ideas on
the structure of condensed solid matter. They are divided into two principal groups; one is
based on discreteness (numbers, atoms), the other on continuity (geometrical figures). The
evolution of these ideas has led to such notion as crystals, long-range and short-range order,
continuous and discrete space, quasicrystals, types of disorder, amorphous structure. In its
turn the new notions generated new theories, such as group theory, topology, etc. Significant
attention was given to molecular dynamics, a new powerful instrument for solution of many
problems connected with the structure of disordered phases. Leaning on a molecular
dynamics, we have developed the theory of deformation and fracture for amorphous
materials.
Keywords: crystals; long-range and short-range order; continuous and discrete space; quasicrystals; types of disorder; amorphous structure; molecular dynamics; disordered phases; deformation and fracture of amorphous materials |
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