X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) Lecture Notes

A series of flashcards summarizing key concepts, definitions, and principles related to X-ray diffraction and its applications based on the lecture notes.

X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)

A technique used in materials science to determine the crystallographic structure of a material by analyzing how x-rays scatter from it.

Crystallographic Structure

An ordered, three-dimensional arrangement of ions, molecules, or atoms within a crystalline material.

Amorphous Structure

A type of structural ordering that lacks long-range order and structural symmetry, in contrast to crystalline structures.

D-Spacings

The distances between planes of atoms in a crystalline structure, which cause diffraction peaks in XRD.

Bragg’s Law

The principle that governs the conditions under which diffraction occurs, stating that the angle of incidence equals the angle of scattering when path length differences equal an integer number of wavelengths.

X-Ray Cathode Tube

A component of an XRD instrument that emits x-rays for diffraction analysis.

X-Ray Detector

A device that collects and measures the intensity of x-rays scattered from the sample during XRD.

Constructive Interference

The phenomenon occurring during x-ray diffraction when waves combine to produce a higher intensity pattern.

Peak Intensity

The measure of scattering intensity recorded during XRD which correlates to the structural details of the material.

Identifying Unknown Crystalline Materials

The primary use of XRD, allowing the characterization of inorganic compounds or minerals.

Homogeneous Sample

A sample that has a uniform composition throughout, which is important for accurate XRD analysis.

XRD Data Interpretation

The process of analyzing the recorded peak positions and intensities to determine the structure and composition of the sample.

Thin Film Analysis

Application of XRD techniques to characterize thin film samples, measuring lattice mismatch, dislocation density, and film quality.

Industry Applications of XRD

Diverse sectors like pharmaceuticals, geology, and electronics utilize XRD for measurement and analysis of materials.