Question

Bragg's law of diffraction is used to determine the:

• A. Crystalline size
• B. Crystal structure
• C. Particle size
• D. Crystal structure as well as particle size

Hint:

By applying Bragg’s law to x-ray diffraction patterns, we can map out the precise arrangement of atoms in a crystal. It’s a crucial tool for understanding materials in both the natural and biological worlds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Bragg's law describes the conditions for constructive interference when X-rays are scattered by a crystal lattice. The law is expressed mathematically as: \(n\lambda = 2d \sin \theta\)
where:
$n$: An integer representing the order of diffraction.
$\lambda$: The wavelength of the X-rays.
$d$: The spacing between atomic planes in the crystal.
$\theta$: The angle of incidence (and reflection) of the X-rays with respect to the atomic planes.
Bragg's law helps us understand how X-rays interact with crystals, which allows scientists to determine crystal structure. This is because the diffraction pattern created depends on the arrangement of atoms in the crystal lattice. 
The measured angles of diffraction ($\theta$) in X-ray diffraction experiments allow us to calculate the interplanar spacing ($d$), and then deduce the crystal structure using the arrangement of different crystal planes. While broadening of the peak relates to the crystallite size, Bragg’s law in itself does not give the particle size.