Experiment No.

Aim: To study and analyze crystallographic problems using Stereographic Projection

Introduction: Stereographic projection permits the mapping in two dimensions of crystallographic

planes and directions in a convenient and straightforward manner. The stereographic projection is a
two-dimensional drawing of three-dimensional data. The geometry of all crystallographic planes and
directions is reduced by one dimension. Planes are plotted as great circle lines. Directions are plotted as
points (poles). It gives information pertaining to the 3d structure and angles relating structural features
in a two dimensional graphic.  For crystallography we are interested mainly in the orientation of
crystallographic planes through their normals, and the angles between planes. Many crystallographic
problems can be solved by considering the stereographic projection of planes and directions in a single
hemisphere, that is, normally the one in front of the plane of the paper. In crystallography, the
orientations of crystal axes and faces in three-dimensional space are a central geometric concern, for
example in the interpretation of X-ray and electron diffraction patterns.

The stereographic projections in the rear hemisphere can also be plotted. The stereographic projections
of planes and directions in the forward hemisphere are drawn as solid lines and dots respectively, those
in the rear hemisphere are plotted as dotted lines and circled dots respectively.

It finds use in diverse fields including complex analysis, cartography, geology, and photography.

In practice, the projection is carried out by computer or by hand using a special kind of graph
paper called a stereographic net, shortened to stereonet, or Wulff net.

Standard Projections:
The plane of projection can be chosen to coincide with a standard low index plane (001) etc. for the
crystal system of interest. This is termed a (001) standard projection for instance. For a standard
projection the plane of projection will appear at the center of the Wulff net.

Attempt the following:

1. Define and give suitable illustration (figure, etc.) for the following:
a. Planes of a zone
b. Zone axis
c. Weiss Zone Law
2. Draw (a) 100, (b) 010 standard projection of a cubic crystal.