# crystallography

/ˌkɹɪstəˈɫɑɡɹəfi/ (US) · /kɹˌɪstɐlˈɒɡɹəfi/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crystallography
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

the science that studies crystals and how their tiny atoms are arranged. You hear about it in chemistry when people use X-rays to look inside solids.

For teachers: scientific study of crystal structure and the arrangement of atoms in solids, typically through X-ray diffraction. Underpins work in chemistry, mineralogy, and materials science where atomic organization determines physical properties.

## Examples

- She studies crystallography to understand salt crystals.
- The chemistry students use crystallography to see how atoms line up inside a diamond.
- Advances in crystallography allowed researchers to map the complex protein structure that had resisted analysis for decades.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.