Translational vibrations in alpha-N-2 from x-ray data

Using the x-ray diffraction method, the mean square displacement of solid nitrogen molecules from its lattice point in alpha phase was determined. The temperature dependences of the amplitude of translational vibrations of nitrogen molecules are obtained in the isotropic approximation. Our experimental values were compared with the theoretical data and a qualitative difference was found. This discrepancy can be explained by the fact that the geometry of the molecule is not considered in theoretical models.