What are the Steps Involved in X-ray Crystallography?
Crystallization: The first step involves obtaining a pure sample of the molecule and then crystallizing it. This can be a challenging process, particularly for large and complex molecules. Data Collection: Once crystals are obtained, they are placed in an X-ray beam. The X-rays are scattered by the electrons in the crystal, creating a diffraction pattern. Data Analysis: The diffraction pattern is analyzed using mathematical techniques to produce a three-dimensional map of electron density. This map is then interpreted to build a model of the molecular structure.
