A crystal lattice is a three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a repeating pattern. This structure defines the shape and properties of a crystal, influencing its physical characteristics such as hardness, melting point, and conductivity. Each point in the lattice represents a position occupied by a particle, and the overall arrangement can vary based on the type of material. The lattice can be classified into different types, such as cubic, hexagonal, or tetragonal, depending on the symmetry and dimensions of the unit cell, which is the smallest repeating unit of the lattice. Understanding crystal lattices is essential in fields like materials science and solid-state physics.