Difference between Bragg and Laue Diffraction?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the differences between Bragg and Laue diffraction, exploring their assumptions and underlying principles. Participants examine how both methods relate to elastic scattering off a periodic lattice and the implications of their respective conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the Bragg condition considers lattice objects grouped in families of planes, while the Laue condition does not require specific planes or specular reflection.
  • Others argue that the Laue criterion relies on the construction of a reciprocal lattice, which is based on the direct lattice defined by families of planes using Miller Indices, from which the Bragg condition is derived.
  • A later reply suggests that the perceived difference regarding specular reflection in Bragg diffraction is influenced by how it is commonly depicted, as multiple lattice planes can produce reflections in various directions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the assumptions underlying Bragg and Laue diffraction, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved regarding the extent and implications of these differences.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misunderstandings of the assumptions involved in each diffraction method and the complexity of how reflections are represented in diagrams.

etmsni
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Hi! I am confused about the difference between the Bragg and Laue Diffraction. It seems that both arrive at the same result, but the assumptions for both are different?
 
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What are the differences in assumptions? I can't think of any. They both deal with elastic scattering off a periodic lattice.
 
The Bragg condition considers lattice objects that are grouped in families of planes, and the incident radiation is specularly reflected. The Laue condition doesn't require the assumption of particular planes and spacings, and doesn't require that reflection be specular.
 
The Laue criterion is dependent upon the construction of a reciprocal lattice. That requires the existence of the direct lattice (consisting of families of planes defined by Miller Indices), upon which the Bragg condition is derived.

The apparent difference regarding specular reflection is an artifact of the way in which Bragg reflection is commonly depicted - by looking at only one family of planes. In reality, through every point in the real lattice, one can construct a virtually infinite number of lattice planes, each of which produces a specular reflection in a different direction.
 

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