X-ray diffraction

noun

: a scattering of X-rays by the atoms of a crystal that produces an interference effect so that the diffraction pattern gives information on the structure of the crystal or the identity of a crystalline substance

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

X-ray diffraction

noun

: a scattering of X-rays by the atoms of a crystal that produces an interference effect so that the diffraction pattern gives information on the structure of the crystal or the identity of a crystalline substance