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WDXRF

Definition

Wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence. An analyser crystal disperses fluorescence by wavelength (Bragg's law again). Slower, costlier, much higher resolution.

Related terms

Anode Target
The metal block (commonly Cu, Mo or Rh) that electrons strike inside an X-ray tube to produce the X-ray beam. Choice of...
Bragg's Law
nλ = 2d sin(θ). A monochromatic X-ray beam diffracted off the parallel lattice planes of a crystal produces constructive interference only at...
Characteristic X-Rays
Sharp emission lines produced when an inner-shell vacancy in an atom is filled by an outer electron. Their energies are element-specific (Moseley's...
Continuous (Bremsstrahlung) Radiation
Smooth background X-ray spectrum produced when high-energy electrons decelerate in the anode. Element-independent. The 'hump' under the characteristic lines.
D-Spacing
The perpendicular distance between adjacent parallel planes of atoms in a crystal lattice, measured in angstroms or nanometres. Each set of planes...
EDXRF
Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence. A solid-state detector resolves the entire emission spectrum at once by photon energy. Cheap, portable, faster.
K-Alpha Line
The characteristic X-ray emitted when an electron drops from the L-shell to fill a K-shell vacancy. Brightest line for most elements; the...

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