Summary of X-ray Diffraction and Interference Effects

X-ray diffraction and, analogously, the diffraction of other electromagnetic waves, as detailed in Fig. 1.51 is summarized in Fig. A. 16.1. A detailed drawing of the constructive and destructive interference is outlined in Fig. 1.54. A variety of typical diffraction patterns are depicted in Figs. 5.69-72, 5.81,5.82,6.4, 6.33, 6.63,6.103, 7.36, and 7.51. Correspondent constructions can be applied to waves of small particles of matter, such as electrons and neutrons. An electron-diffraction pattern is reproduced in Fig. 5.74. Even sound and water waves follow the same principles of diffraction and interference. 

The collimated primary X-ray beam on the left is partially reflected on the different lattice planes of the crystal at an angle Q. Addition of the multitude of different secondary (diffracted) beams leads to the interference. Only if A, shown at the bottom, is a multiple n 

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