AbstractStarting from the Schrödinger equation, the basic theory of scattering of X‐rays by electrons is given. The kinematic scattering, based on the first Born approximation, is treated in detail. The theory of phenomena, corresponding to a breakdown of this approximation, such as multiple and anomalous scattering, is given in outline. Kinematic scattering by a finite crystal is treated by using the convolution method. The consequences of finiteness of the crystal and of a series in a Fourier synthesis of the electron density are indicat