Debye-Scherrer method in finding atom diameter?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on using the Debye-Scherrer method to estimate atomic diameters based on diffraction angles and X-ray radiation. The angles provided were 45.26, 65.92, 83.56, 100.6, 118.68, and 140.88 degrees, with a radiation wavelength (λ) of 0.1540 nm. The correct approach involves recognizing the angles as 2θ, calculating sinθ, and applying Bragg's Law to derive the atomic diameter estimates of 0.246 nm (assuming hard spheres) and 0.280 nm (using average volume per atom). The lattice structure identified is a simple cubic lattice with a lattice constant of approximately 2 angstroms.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bragg's Law and its application in X-ray diffraction.
  • Familiarity with the Debye-Scherrer method for crystallography.
  • Knowledge of lattice structures, specifically simple cubic lattices.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving sine functions and geometric relationships in crystallography.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Bragg's Law in various crystallographic techniques.
  • Learn about the Debye-Scherrer method in detail, including its limitations and advantages.
  • Explore calculations of atomic diameters using different lattice structures.
  • Investigate the relationship between atomic volume and atomic diameter in solid-state physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in materials science, physicists studying crystallography, and anyone involved in determining atomic dimensions using X-ray diffraction techniques.

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Homework Statement


In an examination of a certain element using the Debye-Scherrer technique the following diffraction angles (in degrees) were noted:

45.26/65.92/83.56/100.6/118.68/140.88

Radiation λ=0.1540 nm was used. Obtain two estimates of the atomic diameter of the element in question. a) that obtained assuming the atoms act as contacting hard spheres and b) that obtained from average volume per atom?


Homework Equations



Braggs law

2*dhklsin θ = nλ (n= 0,1,2...)

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to use Braggs law straight away but didn't get the right result (which is for a) 0.246 nm and for b) 0.280 nm)

What am I supposed to do? I found that you are supposed to look ratios of sines squared and determine the lattice in question: http://home.hiram.edu/physics/PHYS340/Debye_Scherrer.pdf . I couldn't find the correct lattice and therefore the correct lattice constant.

Please help!
 
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In case someone needs the answer to Myers Question 3.5 which is this question here I'll write down the steps to follow:
First of all notice that the angles given are diffraction angles. So they are 2θ and not θ
Next step is to find sinθ and then find d from there using λ/2sinθ
from there on it's simply matching hkl values to find an a2
It will come out to be a simple cubic lattice of lattice constant about 2 angstrom
the method of using the average volume then becomes simple by equating a3 to (4/3) π r3
This will give a slightly larger value of diameter.

I hope this helps :)
 

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