Exploring Bragg Peak Intensity Ratios in Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns

In summary, the ratio of the (2 0 0) and (4 0 0) Bragg peak intensities in the X-ray diffraction patterns of Ca and CaF2 would differ due to the presence of F ions in the CaF2 lattice. This causes the (4 0 0) planes to intersect both Ca and F ions, while the (2 0 0) planes only intersect Ca ions. However, when computing the ratios, it is important to consider all the terms in the structure factor formula and the number of F atoms in the conventional cell to accurately compare the intensities.
  • #1
Ichimaru
9
0
Question statement: We are given that Ca and CaF2 are both Ca face-centred cubic lattices, and that in the case of CaF2 there is a basis of F ions at +/-(1/4, 1/4, 1/4). Then explain qualitatively how the ratio of the (2 0 0) and (4 0 0) Bragg peak intensities in the X-ray diffraction patterns of Ca and CaF2 would differ.

Attempt at Solution: The main difference I can think of is that the planes defined by (4 0 0) would go through the F ions as well as Ca ions in the CaF2 lattice whereas the (2 0 0) planes would not intersect any F ions. In contrast the (4 0 0) planes and (2 0 0) planes in Ca would intersect the same atoms, and there would be empty planes in the (4 0 0) case.

However when I try to compute the ratios I get that they are the same, as the extra structure factor in the case of CaF2 just cancels itself out when comparing the (4 0 0) and (2 0 0) structure factors.

Any input would be appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Are you sure you put all the terms in the structure factor formula? How many fluorine atoms have you considered in the conventional cell?
 

1. What is the purpose of exploring Bragg peak intensity ratios in Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns?

The purpose of exploring Bragg peak intensity ratios in Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns is to understand the crystal structure and chemical composition of these materials. By analyzing the intensities of the diffraction peaks, we can determine the arrangement of atoms within the crystal lattice and identify any impurities or defects in the crystal.

2. How are Bragg peak intensity ratios calculated in X-Ray Diffraction Patterns?

The Bragg peak intensity ratios are calculated by dividing the intensity of the diffraction peak at a specific angle by the intensity of the strongest peak in the pattern. This provides a normalized value that can be compared between different samples.

3. What information can be obtained from the Bragg peak intensity ratios?

The Bragg peak intensity ratios can provide information about the crystal structure, such as the lattice parameters and the presence of any impurities or defects. They can also be used to analyze the phase composition of a material and determine the degree of crystallinity.

4. How do Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns differ in terms of Bragg peak intensity ratios?

Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns differ in terms of Bragg peak intensity ratios due to their different crystal structures. Ca has a simple cubic structure, while CaF2 has a fluorite structure. This results in different diffraction peak intensities and ratios.

5. What are the applications of studying Bragg peak intensity ratios in Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns?

The applications of studying Bragg peak intensity ratios in Ca and CaF2 X-Ray Diffraction Patterns include material characterization, identification of unknown compounds, and quality control in industries such as pharmaceuticals and electronics. It can also be used in research to study crystal growth and phase transformations in materials.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
715
Replies
54
Views
5K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
910
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
4
Views
2K
Back
Top