Small-angle scattering

Small-angle scattering provides structural information from the nanometer regime to the micrometer regime. This can be applied to a wide range of samples, proteins, protein complexes, polymers, emulsions, colloids and nanoparticles. Depending on the samples, either small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) or small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) can be used.

The figure demonstrates the basic setup of a small-angle scattering experiment. A beam of X-rays or neutrons enters the experimental setup in the lower right corner. It is then collimated and directed onto the sample of interest. The beam scatters from the sample and the scattering is recorded on an area detector.

The resulting data is integrated over the detector and usually presented as a plot of scattering angle vs. scattering intensity (q), as demonstrated in the upper right of the figure above. From this scattering pattern, information regarding the shape, size, flexibility and interactions of particles can be extracted.

Illustration provided by Nicholas Skar-Gislinge.

The figure demonstrates the basic setup of a small-angle scattering experiment. A beam of X-rays or neutrons enters the experimental setup in the lower right corner. It is then collimated and directed onto the sample of interest. The beam scatters from the sample and the scattering is recorded on an area detector.

The resulting data is integrated over the detector and usually presented as a plot of scattering angle vs. scattering intensity (q), as demonstrated in the upper right of the figure above. From this scattering pattern, information regarding the shape, size, flexibility and interactions of particles can be extracted.