Theoretical Background

Abstract

This chapter describes the basic background for small angle scattering starting with a simple description of the experiment and geometric theory of scattering. It describes the nature of the data produced and the information contained within that data and how relationship between real and reciprocal space in the context of solution scattering. The concept of spherical averaging is described along with its implications and effects on the available structural information from experiment. The chapter describes important fundamental concepts in solution scattering such as the pair distribution function, contrast, and resolution and information content. The chapter is presented so as to promote an intuitive understanding of the theoretical foundations of solution scattering, rather than a rigorous treatment of them.