Understanding Diffraction Condition in Kittle's Intro to Solid State Physics

In summary, the diffraction condition derivation in Kittle's Introduction to Solid State Physics involves understanding why the phase difference angle for the incident wave is positive while the phase angle difference for the diffracted wave is negative. This is due to the fact that the phase of the incident wave advances until reflection, while the phase of the diffracted wave advances after reflection, resulting in an inverted sign when added to the original positive phase difference.
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Mart1234
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TL;DR Summary
Diffraction Condition derivation in Kittle's Introduction to Solid State Physics
I am going over the diffraction condition section in Kittle's Introduction to Solid State Physics physics and I am having a hard time understanding why the phase difference angle for the incident wave is positive while the phase angle difference for the diffracted wave is negative. Thank you for the help.

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Mart1234 said:
TL;DR Summary: Diffraction Condition derivation in Kittle's Introduction to Solid State Physics

I am having a hard time understanding why the phase difference angle for the incident wave is positive while the phase angle difference for the diffracted wave is negativeiy
I see in the figure attached that
[tex]\mathbf{k}\cdot \mathbf{r}>0.....(1)[/tex]
The phase of upside or outside wave advances until reflection.
[tex]\mathbf{k'}\cdot \mathbf{r}<0.....(2)[/tex]
The phase of upside or outside wave advance after reflection also so sign must be inverted for addition to (1) to give the full phase difference by reflection.
 
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1. What is diffraction condition in solid state physics?

The diffraction condition in solid state physics refers to the requirement that the spacing between atoms in a crystal lattice must be on the same order of magnitude as the wavelength of the incident X-ray or electron beam in order for diffraction to occur.

2. Why is the diffraction condition important in solid state physics?

The diffraction condition is important because it allows scientists to use diffraction techniques to study the atomic structure of materials. By analyzing the diffraction pattern, scientists can determine the arrangement of atoms in a crystal lattice, which is crucial for understanding the physical and chemical properties of materials.

3. How is the diffraction condition related to Bragg's law?

The diffraction condition is directly related to Bragg's law, which states that for diffraction to occur, the path difference between the waves scattered from adjacent planes of atoms in a crystal lattice must be an integer multiple of the wavelength of the incident beam. This condition is necessary for constructive interference and the formation of a diffraction pattern.

4. Can the diffraction condition be applied to all types of radiation?

Yes, the diffraction condition can be applied to all types of radiation, including X-rays, electrons, and neutrons. However, the wavelength of the incident beam may vary depending on the type of radiation used, so the specific diffraction condition will also vary accordingly.

5. How does the diffraction condition affect the quality of a diffraction pattern?

The diffraction condition is a crucial factor in determining the quality of a diffraction pattern. If the diffraction condition is not met, the diffraction pattern will be weak or non-existent. On the other hand, if the diffraction condition is met, the diffraction pattern will be strong and well-defined, allowing for accurate analysis of the crystal lattice structure.

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