Crystallography is the most unambiguous method for determining structures of small molecules and macromolecules. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) provides accurate and precise measurements of molecular dimensions in a way no other science can begin to approach.
SC-XRD is most commonly used for precise determination of a unit cell, including cell dimensions and positions of atoms within the lattice. Bond lengths and angles are directly related to the atomic positions.
Specific applications include new mineral identification, crystal solution and refinement; variations in crystal lattice with chemistry; structures of high-pressure and/or high-temperature phases; and determination of crystal-chemical vs. environmental control on mineral chemistry.
A wide range of X-ray sources, optics and goniometer options allow configurations to suit all applications in chemical and biological crystallography.