X-ray diffraction is a technique used to analyze the crystal structure of materials. When x-rays interact with the electrons in a crystal, they produce a unique diffraction pattern. Bragg's law describes the angles and wavelengths that produce constructive interference and diffraction peaks. X-ray diffraction instruments contain an x-ray source, sample holder, and detector. The document discusses several methods for collecting and analyzing x-ray diffraction data, including Laue, Bragg, rotating crystal, and powder methods. Applications include determining crystal structures, analyzing polymers and metals, and characterizing particles.