Solve X-ray Reflection Homework: Find Crystal Plane Spacing

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a homework problem involving X-ray reflection and crystal plane spacing using Bragg's law. The wavelength of the X-rays is 0.09 nm, and the angle of reflection is 36 degrees. The correct application of Bragg's law, represented as 2d sin(θ) = mλ, reveals that the angle θ should be half of the given angle, leading to the correct calculation of plane spacing as 4.73 x 10-11 m instead of the initially calculated 7.65 x 10-11 m.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bragg's law in crystallography
  • Knowledge of X-ray wavelength measurement
  • Basic trigonometry for angle calculations
  • Familiarity with crystal structure concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Review Bragg's law and its applications in crystallography
  • Learn about X-ray diffraction techniques
  • Explore the significance of crystal plane spacing in material science
  • Study the relationship between incident angles and reflected beams in wave physics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or materials science, educators teaching crystallography, and researchers involved in X-ray diffraction analysis will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement



X-rays of wavelength 0.09 nm are incident on a crystal. A reflected beam is observed at 36 degrees from the incident beam. What is the spacing of the planes in the crystal?

Homework Equations



Bragg's law:

2 d \ sin \theta = m \lambda

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought this is a simple application of Bragg's law but I get

2 d \ sin \ 36 = 0.09 \times 10^{-9} \implies d=7.65 \times 10^{-11}

But the answer should be 4.73 x 10-11 m. What's wrong with my calculation?
 
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Draw a picture of the situation.

You have been given the angle between the incident and reflected beams. That is not the angle indicated by the theta in Bragg's law though is it?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bragg's_law
 
Simon Bridge said:
Draw a picture of the situation.

You have been given the angle between the incident and reflected beams. That is not the angle indicated by the theta in Bragg's law though is it?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bragg's_law

I see, thank you. It makes perfect sense now. Thanks! :smile:
 
Well done :) No worries.
 

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