Scattering of light by dust particles

In summary, when the whole window is open, dust particles are not visible because the background is also bright and small dots are hard to see against a bright background. This is similar to how stars and planets are only visible at night due to the darkness, but can sometimes be seen during the day.
  • #1
Pushoam
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TL;DR Summary
Inside a dark room, when light comes through a hole, we see the dust particles as the particles scatter the light. But, when the whole window is open, we don't see the dust particles scattering the light. Why?
Inside a dark room, when light comes through a hole, we see the dust particles as the particles scatter the light. But, when the whole window is open, we don't see the dust particles scattering the light. Why?
 
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  • #2
Because when the whole window is available the background is also bright and small bright dots are hard to see against a bright background.
 
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  • #3
Pushoam said:
when the whole window is open, we don't see the dust particles scattering the light.
I have seen dust particles scattering light many times in a room with an open window.
 
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  • #4
Its the same reason you can see stars (and planets) only at night, although sometimes one can see Venus and or the Moon in the daylight (to which @Dale alludes above.
 
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  • #5
Thanks to all.
 
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What is scattering of light by dust particles?

Scattering of light by dust particles is a phenomenon where light rays are redirected in different directions as they pass through a medium containing dust particles. This causes the light to appear hazy or diffused.

How does scattering of light by dust particles affect visibility?

Scattering of light by dust particles reduces visibility by causing light to be scattered in different directions, making objects appear less distinct and making it more difficult to see distant objects.

What causes dust particles to scatter light?

Dust particles scatter light due to their small size and irregular shape. When light passes through them, the particles cause the light to be reflected and refracted in various directions, leading to scattering.

How does the color of light affect scattering by dust particles?

The color of light affects scattering by dust particles because different colors have different wavelengths. Shorter wavelengths, such as blue and violet, are scattered more easily than longer wavelengths, such as red and orange.

What are some real-life examples of scattering of light by dust particles?

Scattering of light by dust particles is seen in everyday life, such as when sunlight passes through a dusty window, causing the room to appear hazy. It is also responsible for the colors seen in the sky at sunrise and sunset, as well as the appearance of fog and mist.

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