In
chemistry,
a cluster is an ensemble of bound atoms
intermediate in size between a molecule
and a bulk solid. Clusters exist of diverse stoichiometries and nuclearities.
For example, carbon
and boron atoms
form fullerene
and borane clusters, respectively. Transition metals and main group elements form especially robust clusters.
An
aggregation
of atoms, typically metal atoms of
the same kind. Their physical properties (e.g. Electrical, optical) can strongly differ from that of the bulk
structure due to quantum
effects.
1.
A group
of the same or similar elements gathered or occurring closely together; a
bunch: "She held out her hand, a small tight cluster of fingers"
Anne Tyler.
