X-ray Diffraction: Crystal Structure vs. Electric Dipole

AI Thread Summary
X-ray diffraction occurs when X-rays interact with a crystal structure, which can behave like a three-dimensional diffraction grating. This phenomenon is distinct from light diffraction, as X-rays can also induce an electric dipole moment in the atoms of the crystal, leading to scattering that resembles antenna emissions. The two explanations highlight different aspects of the diffraction process, suggesting that while both are valid, they describe different mechanisms at play. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for grasping how X-ray diffraction works. Further resources are available for deeper exploration of this topic.
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When x-rays are incident on a crystal structure, do they diffract in the same way as light through a diffraction grating?
On the one hand, I've read that a crystal structure acts like a 3D diffraction grating. On the other hand, I have been told that x-rays induce an electric dipole moment in the scatterer, which then acts like an antenna and emits scattered waves.
I don't understand the second statement, but I feel like they're saying completely different things anyway.
 
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