Neutron Diffraction
Neutron diffraction is a technique used to study the atomic structure of materials by observing how neutrons scatter when they interact with a sample. Neutrons, which are neutral particles found in atomic nuclei, can penetrate deep into materials without causing damage, making them ideal for examining complex structures, such as biological samples or magnetic materials.
In a typical neutron diffraction experiment, a beam of neutrons is directed at a sample, and the angles and intensities of the scattered neutrons are measured. This information helps scientists determine the arrangement of atoms within the material, providing insights into its properties and behaviors, which is valuable in fields like materials science and solid-state physics.