Why use x-rays to study crystals?

AI Thread Summary
X-rays are preferred for studying crystal structures because their shorter wavelengths allow for detailed examination at the atomic scale. Visible light has larger wavelengths that are insufficient for resolving fine structural details in crystals. The precision of X-rays enables scientists to discern the arrangement of atoms within a crystal lattice. This capability is essential for understanding material properties and behaviors. Thus, X-rays provide a critical advantage in crystallography over visible light.
chukie
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In order to study the structure of crystals, scientists normally use X-rays. Why do they use X-rays and not visible light?

I'm thinking it has something to do with wavelengths, but I do not know why the difference of wavelenght matters.
 
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Visible light has a large wavelength, too large and clumsy to be helpful on the atomic scale.
X-rays, on the other hand, have tiny crisp wavelengths, perfect for examining crystalline structures.
 
thanks!
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
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