Laue refers to the Laue method, which is a technique used in X-ray crystallography to study the structure of crystals. Named after its inventor, physicist Max von Laue, the Laue method is based on the principle of X-ray diffraction.
When a beam of X-rays is incident on a crystalline material, the X-rays interact with the regularly arranged atoms in the crystal lattice. This interaction causes the X-rays to scatter in different directions. The scattering pattern produced is unique to each crystal structure, providing valuable information about its arrangement and composition.
The Laue method involves passing a monochromatic (single wavelength) X-ray beam through a crystal, and then capturing the scattered X-rays on a photographic plate or a digital detector. By analyzing the resulting diffraction pattern, scientists can determine the positions of the atoms in the crystal lattice, as well as the orientations of the crystal and the symmetry of its structure.
Laue is particularly useful for quickly determining the crystal symmetry and crystal lattice parameters of unknown crystals. It is often used during initial stages of crystallographic research or in cases where only small amounts of crystal are available.
Overall, Laue is an important tool in crystallography that allows scientists to gain insight into the atomic arrangement in crystals, aiding in the understanding of various materials, including minerals, metals, and biological macromolecules.
