If we consider the lattice of a crystal, then we can see
that many different planes with different spacings exist within that one lattice.
Click on the animation here to show
some of the different planes for the square lattice shown.
It is difficult to imagine how a beam of waves entering a crystal might be diffracted
with so many different planes set at different angles to the beam, all with different
spacings. Which, if any of these planes will satisfy the Bragg law? To help us we use the
idea of reciprocal lattices.
Click on the animation here to show
some of the different planes for the square lattice shown.
