x-ray diffraction

noun

Physics.

1. diffraction of x-rays by the regularly spaced atoms of a crystal, useful for determining the arrangement of the atoms.

X-ray diffraction

noun

1. the scattering of X-rays on contact with matter, resulting in changes in radiation intensity, which is used for studying atomic structure

x-ray diffraction

1. The scattering of x-rays by crystal atoms, producing a diffraction pattern that yields information about the structure of the crystal. X-ray diffraction is used in x-ray crystallography.

Word History and Origins

Origin of x-ray diffraction¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

X-ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy characterized the structure and composition of materials at the nanoscale.

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They used two types of x-ray diffraction analysis to explore the encapsulation process as it happened.

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Yet according to the researchers — who used X-ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy to examine both the Gale Crater samples and samples from the Tablelands of Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland, Northern California’s Klamath Mountains, and western Nevada — the geological records are not promising for past life.

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The single-crystal X-ray diffraction data collection and refinement were supported by the DOE Office of Science.

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Using many advanced techniques, including X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, they determined the elemental distribution and crystallinity of each of the films.

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