A technique for determining the atomic structure of crystals by analyzing how X-rays are diffracted when passed through crystallized samples. It reveals the precise three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within molecules and crystal lattices.
Combines 'X-ray' (discovered by Wilhelm Röntgen in 1895) with 'crystallography' from Greek 'krystallos' (crystal) and 'graphein' (to write). Developed by Max von Laue and the Braggs in early 1900s, becoming the foundation for understanding atomic structure.
X-ray crystallography is like using shadows to figure out the exact shape of an invisible object - except the 'shadows' are diffraction patterns and the 'objects' are individual atoms! This technique revealed the double helix of DNA and continues to unlock the atomic secrets of life's most important molecules.
Rosalind Franklin's Photo 51 was central to DNA structure determination but credit was awarded to Watson, Crick, and Wilkins—a canonical example of women's scientific erasure. The broader field perpetuated male-centric attribution.
Always credit Rosalind Franklin and other female crystallographers when teaching structural biology. Contextualize erasure as a historical fact.
Rosalind Franklin's crystallographic expertise and insight were foundational to understanding DNA structure, yet she was denied co-authorship and recognition during her lifetime.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.