How does seed crystal affect the crystallization process?

A seed crystal acts as a nucleation site that facilitates the crystallization process by providing a stable structure for additional molecules to arrange themselves around. This can significantly lower the energy barrier for crystallization, leading to faster and more uniform crystal growth. The presence of seed crystals can enhance the purity and size of the resulting crystals by promoting orderly packing of molecules. Overall, seed crystals play a crucial role in controlling the conditions and outcomes of crystallization.