Does Scattering Involve Absorption

In summary, scattering and absorption are two different processes that can occur when energy passes through a medium. Scattering involves the deflection or redirection of energy, while absorption involves the conversion of energy into a different form, such as heat. While some types of scattering do involve absorption, others do not. Additionally, scattering and absorption can occur simultaneously, but the type of medium can greatly affect the degree to which they occur. Some real-life examples of scattering and absorption include the blue color of the sky, the reflection of light off a mirror, and the warmth felt from the sun's rays.
  • #1
Abid Rizvi
20
0
Hi,

I read that scattering is just hitting a particle and bouncing off at some other direction. But I also read that scattering involves the complete absorption and emission of a particle/wave. Is this part correct? I have been unable to find that bit of information anywhere else.
 
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  • #3
There are different possibilities, depending on the particles involved - photons, neutrons, various charged particles, etc.
 

Related to Does Scattering Involve Absorption

1. Does scattering always involve absorption?

No, scattering does not always involve absorption. Scattering is the process of deflecting or redirecting light, sound, or other forms of energy as it passes through a medium. Absorption, on the other hand, is the process of converting the energy into a different form, such as heat. While some types of scattering do involve absorption, others do not.

2. How does scattering differ from absorption?

Scattering and absorption are two different processes that can occur when energy passes through a medium. Scattering involves the deflection or redirection of energy, while absorption involves the conversion of energy into a different form, such as heat. Scattering can also occur without absorption, but absorption always involves some form of scattering.

3. Can scattering and absorption occur simultaneously?

Yes, scattering and absorption can occur simultaneously. In some cases, scattering may lead to absorption, as the deflected energy is converted into a different form. However, there are also cases where scattering and absorption can occur independently of each other.

4. How does the type of medium affect scattering and absorption?

The type of medium can greatly affect the degree of scattering and absorption that occurs. Some materials are better at scattering energy, while others are better at absorbing it. The size and composition of particles within the medium can also play a role in the amount of scattering and absorption that occurs.

5. What are some real-life examples of scattering and absorption?

Scattering and absorption occur in many different forms of energy, including light, sound, and radio waves. Some common real-life examples of scattering include the blue color of the sky (caused by scattering of sunlight), the reflection of light off a mirror, and the echoes of sound in a large room. Examples of absorption include the warmth felt from the sun's rays, the absorption of sound by foam panels in a recording studio, and the absorption of radio waves by buildings in a city.

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