Lattice vibrations refer to the oscillations of atoms within a solid material, particularly in crystalline structures. These vibrations occur as atoms move around their equilibrium positions, creating waves of energy that propagate through the lattice. This phenomenon is essential for understanding thermal properties, as it influences how heat is conducted in materials. In the context of solid-state physics, lattice vibrations are often described using the concept of phonons, which are quantized modes of these vibrations. Phonons play a crucial role in various physical processes, including thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and superconductivity in materials.