Large magnitude

(Large T_m, large E and small α )

Example: MgO – 1000 kJ / mol, T_m- 2800^oC

Non-directional

(Typically Ceramics)

Variable for materials such as Si, Ge

Large for Diamond (Carbon) and small for Bismuth

Typically Large T_m and large E

Example: Si - 450 kJ/mol; T_m- 1410^oC

Directional

(Typically Semiconductors, Polymers and some Ceramics)

Large: Tungsten (W)

Small: Mercury (Hg)

Moderate: Al: 68 kJ/mol, T_m~ 670^oC

Smallest

Characterized by low T_m, low E and large α

Inter–chain (Polymer)

Inter–molecular