Thomson scattering (/ˈtɒmsən ˈskætərɪŋ/) is a process in which electromagnetic radiation is scattered by free charged particles. The term is named after physicist J.J. Thomson, who discovered the electron. In Thomson scattering, the scattered radiation has the same frequency but different direction and phase than the incident radiation. This phenomenon is used in many fields, including astronomy, plasma physics, and atmospheric science. The spelling of "Thomson scattering" is based on the IPA phonetic transcription, which represents the sounds of the word in a standardized way.
Thomson scattering is a physical phenomenon first explained by the British physicist J.J. Thomson in the late 19th century. It refers to the process by which electromagnetic radiation, such as light or X-rays, interacts with charged particles, typically free electrons, present in a medium.
During Thomson scattering, the incident radiation interacts with the charged particle, causing it to oscillate. This oscillation creates an electric dipole moment, which in turn produces secondary radiation with the same frequency as the incident radiation. This secondary radiation is scattered in all directions, including back towards the source. The scattered radiation retains the polarization and energy of the incident radiation, but its intensity may be altered.
Thomson scattering is particularly useful in the study of astrophysics, as it allows scientists to gather valuable information about the properties of plasmas, such as temperature, density, and velocity, by analyzing the scattered radiation. It has applications in various fields, including plasma physics, nuclear fusion research, and remote sensing techniques in the study of Earth's atmosphere and ionosphere.
Understanding Thomson scattering has also been crucial in the development of diagnostic tools and techniques in engineering, allowing engineers to measure the plasma parameters and properties, contributing to the improvement and optimization of various industrial processes.
The word "Thomson scattering" is named after the British physicist Sir J.J. Thomson. Thomson made significant contributions to the field of electromagnetism and atomic physics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is particularly well-known for his discovery of the electron and his development of the "plum pudding" model of the atom. Thomson scattering refers to the phenomenon where electromagnetic radiation, such as light or X-rays, is scattered by charged particles, usually electrons. It is a fundamental process in physics and has applications in various fields, including astrophysics and plasma physics. The term "Thomson scattering" was coined to honor J.J. Thomson's contributions to our understanding of this scattering phenomenon.