Solve X-ray Reflection Homework: Find Crystal Plane Spacing

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the application of Bragg's law to determine the spacing of crystal planes when X-rays of a specific wavelength are incident at a given angle. The original poster presents a calculation based on the provided angle and wavelength.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply Bragg's law directly but questions the validity of their result. Some participants suggest clarifying the angle used in the calculation, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the angle in Bragg's law.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants engaging in clarifying the geometric setup of the problem. There is acknowledgment of the original poster's confusion regarding the angle, and some guidance has been offered to reconsider the angle used in the application of Bragg's law.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the angle provided is between the incident and reflected beams, which may not correspond directly to the angle used in Bragg's law, indicating a need for careful interpretation of the problem setup.

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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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