X-ray analysis is a method of research of structural building materials.It is based on the diffraction of X-ray beam at the special three-dimensional crystal lattices.In the study using a wave length of about 1A, which corresponds to the size of the atom.It should be noted that X-ray analysis with neutron and electron diffraction methods relates to the determination of the structure of the substance.
It helps to explore the atomic structure, the space group of the unit cell, its size and shape, as well as a group of crystal symmetry.Using this technique studying various metals and their alloys, organic and inorganic compounds, minerals, amorphous materials, liquids and gases.In some cases, a X-ray diffraction analysis of proteins, nucleic acids and other substances.
This analysis helps to establish the atomic structure of crystalline materials, which have a clearly defined structure and are a natural diffraction grating for X-rays.It should be noted that the investigation of other substances ray diffraction requires the crystals that is important but quite difficult task.
XRD Laue discovered, developed the theoretical basis of Wolfe and Bragg.Apply found patterns in the role of the analysis offered Debye and Scherrer.I must say that at present the X-ray analysis is one of the most common methods for determining the structure of substances, because it is simple to perform and does not require large material costs.
It lets you explore different classes of substances, and the value of the information obtained makes the introduction of new techniques.So, first began to study the structure of matter when using the interatomic vectors were later developed direct methods for the determination of the crystal structure.It should be noted that the first substances that were studied using X-rays were sodium and potassium chlorides.
study of the spatial structure of proteins began in the 30s of the last century in the United Kingdom.The findings gave rise to molecular biology, which has identified the important physical and chemical properties of proteins, as well as to create the first model of DNA.
With 50s actively began to develop computer-based assembly information that has been obtained by X-ray structural analysis.
today use synchrotrons.They are monochromatic X-ray sources that are used for irradiation of the crystals.The most effective these devices are in the multi-wavelength anomalous dispersion method.It should be noted that they apply only to public research centers.In laboratories use less powerful technique which serves only to check the quality of the crystals, as well as for rough analysis of substances.
