The spelling of the word "scattering" is determined by its phonetics. The word, pronounced as /ˈskæt̬.ə.rɪŋ/ has a hard "c" and a double "t" due to the emphasis on the second syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "cat," whereas the second syllable has a more muted "a" sound. The final syllable, "ing," is pronounced with a soft "r" and a nasal "n." Overall, the spelling of "scattering" accurately reflects its phonetic pronunciation.
Scattering is a noun that refers to the act or process of dispersing or spreading things or particles in different directions. It involves the random distribution or separation of objects or substances over an area or space.
In physics, scattering specifically describes the phenomenon in which particles or waves interact with each other or with a medium, causing a change in their direction or propagation. This change in direction is often due to the particles or waves encountering obstacles or other particles, resulting in their deflection or redirection. Scattering is commonly observed in various physical processes, such as the scattering of light by particles in the atmosphere, the scattering of sound waves by objects in a room, and the scattering of electrons by atomic nuclei.
Furthermore, scattering can also be applied figuratively to describe the disorganization or lack of concentration of things or people. It implies a state of dispersion or disarray, often suggesting a lack of focus or unity. For example, one might describe a scattered mind as one that is distracted or unable to concentrate.
Overall, "scattering" encompasses the dispersal or spreading of objects, particles, or waves, either through physical interactions or metaphorically in terms of disorganization or lack of concentration.
• Divided among many.
• Act of dispersing or distributing; something scattered.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "scattering" originated from the Middle English word "scateren", which was derived from the Old Norse word "skatra" meaning "to scatter". This Old Norse word was further derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skatjaną", which has the same meaning. The underlying Proto-Indo-European root of "scattering" is believed to be *sked-, meaning "to divide" or "to separate".