neutrondifraktsiooni

Neutrondifraktsiooni, also known as neutron diffraction, is a scientific technique used to determine the atomic and magnetic structure of materials. It utilizes the wave-like properties of neutrons, which are subatomic particles with no electric charge. When a beam of neutrons interacts with a crystalline material, the neutrons scatter. The scattered neutrons exhibit a diffraction pattern due to their wave nature and the periodic arrangement of atoms within the crystal lattice.

This diffraction pattern is analogous to how X-rays diffract, but neutrons offer unique advantages. Because neutrons are not charged, they penetrate deeply into materials, allowing for the study of bulk properties and samples enclosed in containers. Furthermore, neutrons are sensitive to the magnetic moments of atoms, making neutron diffraction a powerful tool for investigating magnetic structures and ordering. The scattering of neutrons by atomic nuclei is also significant, and these interactions are non-destructive.

The process involves directing a monochromatic or polychromatic beam of neutrons onto a sample. Detectors are then used to measure the intensity of neutrons scattered at various angles. By analyzing the positions and intensities of the diffraction peaks, scientists can deduce the arrangement of atoms, the distances between them, and the presence and orientation of magnetic moments within the material. Neutron diffraction is employed in a wide range of fields, including condensed matter physics, materials science, chemistry, and biology, for characterizing crystalline and magnetic structures, studying lattice dynamics, and investigating phase transitions.