Röntgensdiffuusio

Röntgensdiffuusio, also known as X-ray scattering, is a phenomenon where X-rays are deflected or scattered in various directions when they interact with matter. This scattering occurs because the electrons within the atoms of the material absorb and re-emit the X-ray photons. The pattern of the scattered X-rays depends on the arrangement of atoms within the material.

When X-rays strike a crystalline material, the regular, repeating arrangement of atoms causes the scattered X-rays to interfere constructively and destructively at specific angles. This interference creates a diffraction pattern, which is unique to the crystal structure. By analyzing this pattern, scientists can determine the atomic structure, lattice parameters, and even identify unknown crystalline substances. This technique is fundamental in fields like crystallography, materials science, and chemistry for characterizing solid materials.

In amorphous materials, which lack long-range atomic order, the scattering is more diffuse and less ordered, resulting in broad halos rather than sharp diffraction peaks. Even in these cases, the scattering provides information about the local atomic arrangements and the presence of short-range order. Different types of X-ray scattering exist, including small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) which probes larger structures, and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) which reveals atomic-scale details. The energy and wavelength of the X-rays used, as well as the sample's composition and physical state, all influence the observed scattering patterns.