Image for Laue pattern

Laue pattern

A Laue pattern is a visual representation produced when X-rays are directed at a crystalline material. Because crystals have a regular, repeating atomic structure, the X-rays diffract and produce a series of spots on a detector. These spots create a pattern unique to the crystal's internal arrangement. By analyzing the pattern, scientists can determine the crystal's symmetry, lattice parameters, and quality. Laue diffraction is commonly used to identify crystal orientations and to quickly assess whether a crystal is well-ordered, making it a valuable tool in materials science and mineralogy.