Space Group Patterns

M. W. Meier

ETH Zurich, Switzerland

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• Introduction
• Two-Dimensional Periodic Patterns
• Space Group Operations
• Introductory Examples of Space Group Patterns and their Use
• Further Examples Including More Complicated Space Groups
• Concluding Remarks
• Acknowledgements
• References and Notes

Teaching Aims

For teaching students how to recognize a space group and how to tackle related problems arising in practice (such as different settings, subgroup relations).

Level

Should be useful in crystallography courses at an elementary or intermediate level, particularly when the emphasis is on practical rather than mathematical aspects.

Background

Some knowledge of the elements of crystallography is assumed. The topic is best preceded by an exercise on plane groups using readily available periodic patterns (such as suitable gift wrapping paper).

Practical Resources

The work sheets have been specially designed for easy duplication which is permitted for personal use only. (Actual reprinting of the worksheets is subject to copyright restrictions.)

Time Required for Teaching

An appropriate selection of space groups will take up one or two practical sessions depending on the level of the course.

Copyright © 1984, 1998 International Union of Crystallography