Diving Deep: X-ray Crystallography and the Inside of Crystals Instructor: Werner Kaminsky, Chemistry Diving deep into the world of nanometer large details via X-rays is a challenge but also a rewarding subject to spend time with nobody will ever forget. X-ray-crystallography is the art and science of discovering, describing, and understanding atomic structures of crystals. Since the scale of atomic units is around 1-5 nm and started as early as 1912 it is likely the oldest of all nanotechnologies. No surprise that a relatively large number of crystallographers became Nobel Prize winners, stretching from first discoveries of what simple crystals are made of to solving the structures of proteins which opened the door to many medical, biological, and pharmaceutical discoveries. In this seminar we will first hear about the basics of crystallography. The studies of the fundamental principles will be guided by examining the chronological order of events and scientific victories that led to important discoveries and the Nobel Prices. Then the students will have the opportunity for hands on solution of crystal structures in the X-ray laboratory of the Department of Chemistry. Emphasis will be given to proper scientific documentation which will include the preparation of electronic publications of crystal structures via the path ways provided by the International Union of Crystallography, IUCr. Meets: MTWTh 9:30-12:00
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