The Electron Distribution of Magnesium Oxide

The intensity of $x$-rays reflected from powdered crystals of magnesium oxide was measured for all lines out to $\theta =45\mathrm{}°$. The values of the structure factor, $F$, were calculated and plotted against $sin \theta$. Using the values of $F$ from this curve as coefficients in Compton's Fourier series, the radial electron distribution for the atoms of magnesium and oxygen was determined. The electron distribution curves for these atoms are very similer to Havighurst's curves for sodium chloride and sodium fluoride. Although it has been generally conceded that crystals of the magnesium oxide type are polar in form, the data here included are more in line with their being non-polar crystals. However, it is not believed possible from x-ray reflection data to prove definitely this point.