What is X-ray diffraction

X-ray diffraction the diffraction of x-rays by a crystal. The wavelengths of x-rays are comparable in size to the distances between atoms in most crystals, and the repeated pattern of the crystal lattice acts like a diffraction grating for x-rays. Thus, a crystal of suitable type can be used to disperse x-rays in a spectrometer. X-ray diffraction is also the basis of x-ray crystallography. See also BRAGG'S LAW.