LIGHT SCATTERING Meaning and
Definition
-
Light scattering is a phenomenon in which light is deviated from its original path by interactions with particles or objects in a medium. It occurs when light encounters particles or boundaries that are comparable in size to its wavelength. This deviation in the path of light occurs due to interactions such as reflection, refraction, and diffraction. Light scattering can occur in various mediums, including gases, liquids, and solids.
In light scattering, the incident light is absorbed by the particles, and then re-emitted in different directions. The scattering is dependent on the properties of the particles, such as their size, shape, and refractive index. Different scattering patterns can occur depending on the particle size relative to the wavelength of light. When the particle size is much smaller than the wavelength, it is called Rayleigh scattering, which results in a scattering of light in all directions. On the other hand, if the particle size approaches or exceeds the wavelength of light, it is called Mie scattering, which results in scattering with a dependence on the angle and intensity of light.
Light scattering plays a crucial role in a variety of natural phenomena and scientific applications. It is responsible for the blue color of the sky, as well as the vibrant hues observed in sunsets. Light scattering is utilized in fields such as atmospheric science, remote sensing, and biomedical optics. By studying the patterns of scattered light, scientists can gain insights into the properties of the scattering medium and its constituent particles, leading to advancements in various scientific disciplines.
Etymology of LIGHT SCATTERING
The word "light scattering" consists of two parts: "light" and "scattering".
The term "light" originates from the Old English word "leoht", which means "brightness" or "illumination". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Dutch word "licht" and the German word "Licht". These words can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "leuhtiz".
The word "scattering" is derived from the Old Norse word "skatr", which means "to splash" or "to scatter". This word also has Germanic origins and is related to the Swedish word "skvätta" and the English word "splash". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "sketaną".
