X-ray diffraction techniques, both powder and single crystal, are important components of modern geology, chemistry and physics curricula. X-ray fluorescence and powder diffraction as analytical tools are absolutely essential to the field of geology. The advent of solid state materials such as semiconductors and thinly coated substrates makes X- ray analysis an even more integral part of chemistry and physics than it was in the past. The existing teaching and research X-ray facility at Hope College has recently been remodeled and refitted to update the powder facility and to expand the capabilities to include single crystal photographic techniques. The modernized unit, which is a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility, is being utilized by students in five geology courses, two chemistry courses and one course in physics. The facility is also being used for undergraduate research activities.
