What Are Direct and Reciprocal Lattices in Semiconductor Physics?

i have just started studying "physics of semiconductor".i have came across ,primitive cell,some cubic structures and milller indices .so far i am okay with all concept,but suddenly a concept called direct lattice and reciprocal lattice is introduced.i do not know what that mean all i have in my hand is just equation of that.

direct lattice

R=ma+nb+pc

reciprocal lattice

a*=2pi((b*c)/a.b*C)


b*=2pi((c*a)/a.b*C)


c*=2pi((a*b)/a.b*C)

please explain me about this by considering i am new to semiconductor physics.Thank you in advance

Hi Bhuvanesh,

I have here different Notes on lattice.

1. Difference between direct and reciprocal lattice
2. Forum on Lattice
3. Different Lattices

Hope it helps,

can you say in short that what is mean by lattice.what is the lattice of the crystal mean?

The lattice structure of a material provide majority if not all of the important information that you need for Electron Dynamics which is an important aspect in the study of semiconductors. It helps us know the properties of the material, like if it is a good optical material or not, and eventually learn how certain materials become good semiconductors. The study of materials is very important in the study of Free Electron Theory and many other in depth field of study in Electronics. Normally, discussions about the different lattice structures of materials are covered in a subject called material science, which is a necessary prerequisite before you move into a more in depth study of electronics.

Basically a crystal lattice is the geometric structure of atoms, molecules, or ions inside a crystal. This arrangement is primarily symmetric, repetitive, and 3-dimensional. I recommend you to check the links shared above if you really want to learn more about Direct and Reciprocal Lattice.

structure consisting of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened together with square or diamond-shaped spaces left between, used as a screen or fence or as a support for climbing plants.
A crystal lattice basically tells us about the basic structure of those points. After the correct placement of atoms on those points the original crystal structure is obtained