The principle behind electron diffraction is based on the wave-particle duality of electrons. According to de Broglie's hypothesis, electrons exhibit wave-like properties, with a wavelength given by λ = h/p, where h is Planck's constant and p is the momentum of the electron. When a beam of electrons interacts with a crystalline material, the electrons are diffracted by the periodic potential of the crystal lattice, leading to constructive and destructive interference. The resulting diffraction pattern is captured on a detector and can be analyzed to reveal detailed information about the crystal structure.