Scatter vs Diffusion: What’s the Difference?

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In summary, the difference between scatter and diffusion is that scattering occurs when there are only a few changes in the medium and they are somewhat separated, while diffusion occurs when there are a large number of changes in the medium and they are closely spaced. For example, in scattering, a photon may hit an electron and change direction, while in diffusion, light passing through a fog undergoes many interactions. The distinction between the two becomes more significant when there are many changes in the medium.
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dervast
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Hi. I want to know what's the difference between scatter and diffusion... I am trying to understand what happens to the electromagnetic wave when we are talking about scattering and about light diffusion.. I think that the result of scattering it to make the light to diffuse.. Is that right?
 
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Scattering usually is used when the number of changes by the medium is small and somewhat separated. Diffusion is used when there are a large number of changes and the separations are small.
 
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Thx a lot for your answer but can u plx expalin me a little more what u have said above
 
  • #4
For example - a photon (gamma ray) hits an electron and changes direction. This is a single scatter. Alternatively - light going through a fog undergoes many interactions (individual scatters don't mean much) This is diffusion. To some extent, quantitative difference becomes qualitative.
 

What is the difference between scatter and diffusion?

Scatter and diffusion are both processes that involve the movement of particles. However, they differ in how they disperse particles. Scatter involves particles being redirected in various directions, while diffusion involves particles spreading out evenly.

What causes scatter and diffusion to occur?

Scatter is typically caused by external forces, such as collisions with other particles or changes in direction due to obstacles. Diffusion, on the other hand, is caused by the random movement of particles due to thermal energy.

How are scatter and diffusion measured?

Scatter is typically measured by the degree of redirection or deviation from the original path, while diffusion is measured by the rate of particle spread or the distance traveled by particles.

What are some real-life examples of scatter and diffusion?

Scatter can be seen in phenomena such as light scattering in the atmosphere, which causes the sky to appear blue. Diffusion is commonly observed in processes such as the mixing of two liquids or the diffusion of gases in a closed container.

Can scatter and diffusion occur simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible for scatter and diffusion to occur at the same time. In fact, scatter can contribute to the overall diffusion process by redirecting particles in different directions, leading to a more even spread.

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