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What are some common misconceptions about crystallography and how can they be addressed?

Garey Mollin

Crystallography is a fascinating field that involves the study of crystals and their properties. However, there are many misconceptions about crystallography that are prevalent in popular culture and among the general public. These misconceptions can be addressed by engaging in public outreach and education, and by highlighting the benefits of crystallography for scientific research and society as a whole.

One common misconception about crystallography is that it is a niche field that has limited applications. In reality, crystallography has a wide range of applications in various fields, including chemistry, physics, materials science, geology, and biology. For instance, crystallography has been used to determine the structure of complex molecules such as proteins, which has led to the development of new drugs and treatments for various diseases. Similarly, crystallography has enabled researchers to study the properties of materials such as semiconductors, which are essential for electronic devices like smartphones and computers.

Another misconception about crystallography is that it is a difficult and esoteric subject that is inaccessible to the general public. While it is true that crystallography involves advanced mathematical and computational techniques, it is also a field that can be understood and appreciated by people from all walks of life. Many crystallographers engage in public outreach activities such as talks, demonstrations, and workshops to educate the public about the importance and relevance of crystallography. Additionally, there are many resources available online, such as educational videos, podcasts, and interactive tools, that can help demystify crystallography and make it more accessible to a wider audience.

A third misconception about crystallography is that it is a static and unchanging field, where researchers simply determine the structure of crystals and move on. In reality, crystallography is a dynamic and evolving field that is constantly pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the physical world. New techniques for crystallography are being developed all the time, such as cryo-electron microscopy and serial crystallography, which enable researchers to study structures that were previously inaccessible. Additionally, crystallographers are constantly collaborating with researchers from other fields to apply crystallography to new and exciting problems.

In conclusion, while there are several misconceptions about crystallography that are prevalent in popular culture and the general public, these can be addressed by engaging in public outreach and education, highlighting the wide range of applications of crystallography, and emphasizing the dynamic and evolving nature of the field. By doing so, we can help foster a greater understanding and appreciation of crystallography, and encourage more people to pursue careers in this fascinating and important field.