Crystal structure determination Flashcards
1
Q
Describe why x-rays are good to probe the structure of a crystal
A
X-rays have a wavelength of ~10^-10 m, which is a typical internuclear distance in crystals. They are diffracted by planes of atoms
2
Q
Describe how X-ray radiation is used in crystal structure determination
A
High energy electrons are fired at metal samples such as Cu. The electrons excite core electrons, leaving a vacancy. The excited electron drops back into the vacancy, emitting X-ray radiation.
3
Q
Define Bragg’s Law
A
2dsinθ = nλ
n