What is the purpose of x-ray crystallography?

The purpose of x-ray crystallography is to determine the three-dimensional structure of molecules. This technique involves directing x-rays at a crystalline sample of the substance in question. When the x-rays are scattered by the atoms in the crystal, they create a diffraction pattern. By analyzing this pattern, researchers can infer the arrangement of the atoms within the molecule, which provides critical insights into its shape and how it functions.

Understanding the three-dimensional structure of a molecule is essential in various fields, including biochemistry and molecular biology, as it can help researchers comprehend how proteins interact with other molecules, how enzymes catalyze reactions, and how drugs can be designed to target specific biological processes effectively.

The other options do not align with the primary application of x-ray crystallography. For instance, DNA sequencing and the detection of genetic mutations typically involve different methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or sequencing technologies. Visualizing live cell processes often employs techniques like fluorescence microscopy rather than crystallography, which requires crystals that are not suitable for live cell imaging.