Course description:

In this course we discover the unique properties of synchrotron radiation, which make it an indispensable tool in the exploration of matter. The wavelengths of the emitted photons from synchrotron sources span a range of dimensions from the atomic level to biological cells, thereby providing powerful probes for advanced research in materials, physical, chemical and life sciences. The course is designed to address three broad categories of synchrotron experimental measurement techniques: scattering, spectroscopy and imaging. We will survey the fundamental principles, instrumental characteristics, and many typical and current applications of these techniques with a focus on systems relevant to chemistry, materials science and physics. After attending this course you will be able to (a) recognize the advantages and limitations of synchrotron materials characterization tools, (b) choose a proper tool for a given application, and (c) know the necessary procedures to measure at large-scale X-ray facilities.