Common misconceptions in crystallography and crystal optics
Casas Duocastella, Lluís (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Departament de Geologia)

Date:	2026
Abstract:	Did you know that an X-ray diffraction pattern is not a spectrum? However, one in five scientific papers showing X-ray diffraction patterns refers to them as 'X-ray spectra'. Further, and in contrast to what is stated in many reference books, a triclinic substance could have a cubic-shaped cell. In crystal optics the terminology 'parallel Nicols' is almost always misused, and in the frame of polarizing microscope observations zoning is sometimes mistaken for twinning. In this paper, six recurring misconceptions in crystallography, including several related to mineral and crystal optics, are analyzed. Their prevalence is assessed through statistical data on their persistent appearances in peer-reviewed scientific literature. The objective of this study is to promote the correction of these misconceptions in academic communication and teaching. Furthermore, and according to some learning theories, the explanation of well established misconceptions could be used by teachers as an educational resource, offering powerful learning opportunities and contributing to talent development.
Note:	Altres ajuts: acords transformatius de la UAB
Rights:	Aquest document està subjecte a una llicència d'ús Creative Commons. Es permet la reproducció total o parcial, la distribució, la comunicació pública de l'obra i la creació d'obres derivades, fins i tot amb finalitats comercials, sempre i quan es reconegui l'autoria de l'obra original.
Language:	Anglès
Document:	Article ; recerca ; Versió publicada
Subject:	Misconceptions ; X-ray diffraction ; Cell restrictions ; Crystal optics ; XRD spectra
Published in:	Journal of applied crystallography, Vol. 59, Num. 1 (February 2026) , p. 239-247, ISSN 1600-5767

DOI: 10.1107/S1600576725010635

9 p, 11.9 MB

The record appears in these collections:
Articles > Research articles
Articles > Published articles