Dynamical theory of diffraction

The dynamical theory of diffraction describes the interaction of waves with a regular lattice.

The wave fields traditionally described are X-rays, neutrons or electrons and the regular lattice are atomic crystal structures or nanometer-scale multi-layers or self-arranged systems.

The dynamical theory of diffraction considers the wave field in the periodic potential of the crystal and takes into account all multiple scattering effects.

Unlike the kinematic theory of diffraction which describes the approximate position of Bragg or Laue diffraction peaks in reciprocal space, dynamical theory corrects for refraction, shape and width of the peaks, extinction and interference effects.

Graphical representations are described in dispersion surfaces around reciprocal lattice points which fulfill the boundary conditions at the crystal interface.

Laue and Bragg geometries, top and bottom, as distinguished by the Dynamical theory of diffraction with the Bragg diffracted beam leaving the back or front surface of the crystal, respectively. ( Ref. )
Reflectivities for Laue and Bragg geometries, top and bottom, respectively, as evaluated by the dynamical theory of diffraction for the absorption-less case. The flat top of the peak in Bragg geometry is the so-called Darwin Plateau. ( Ref. )