Conclusion

What did we learn?

• Experimentally, the average spacing between ball-bearings was determined to be 4.37 cm. The measured (using a ruler) spacing was 4.50 cm.
• We determined by rotating the crystal five different planes that produced constructive interference.
• Bragg's Equation's can be used on the macroscopic level to predict the interference patterns created by electromagnetic radiation incident upon a crystalline object.

Possible Errors

• We were very careful to block any reflections of the microwaves off the surfaces of objects near the apparatus. However, some reflection, not through the crystal could have shifted the intensity peaks.
• We were never able to get a definite value off the voltmeter. Possibly due background, a range of values were given and an average value was reported.
• The microwave apparatus was very temperamental.