How Does Dust Grain Size Compare to Wavelength in Scattering Light?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the wavelength dependence of dust grain size in relation to light scattering, specifically when the size of the grain (s) is comparable to the wavelength of incoming light (s~lambda). The user seeks references for this specific regime, noting that existing literature primarily addresses cases where s is much smaller or larger than lambda. The consensus suggests that in the s~lambda scenario, scattering is dominant, with a Rayleigh scattering dependence expressed as thomson*(s/lambda)^4. Mie theory is mentioned as a potential framework for understanding this phenomenon.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of light scattering principles
  • Familiarity with Mie theory and Mie scattering
  • Knowledge of Rayleigh scattering concepts
  • Basic grasp of the relationship between wavelength and particle size
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Mie theory and its applications in scattering
  • Study Rayleigh scattering and its mathematical formulation
  • Explore the implications of particle size on light absorption and scattering
  • Investigate the relationship between grain size and wavelength in various materials
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, optical engineers, and researchers in atmospheric science who are exploring the interactions between light and particulate matter, particularly in the context of scattering phenomena.

AriAstronomer
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Hey everyone,
So I've been killing myself trying to find a good reference that talks about the wavelength dependence of dust grains when the size of the grain is about the size of the incoming light, or s~lambda. I have numerous references for when s<<lambda (absorption dominates with a s/lambda*thomson cross section dependence) and when s>>lambda (absorption again dominates and the cross section is simply the thomson cross section), but all the texts I've sifted through so far shy away from s~lambda though. My intuition tells me that in this regime where s~lambda, scattering dominates with a rayleigh scattering dependence of thomson*(s/lambda)^4, but I need a reference somewhere which talks about this. Anyone know of any??

Ari
 
Science news on Phys.org
Are you talking about Mie theory or Mie scattering as a solution to your problem.
Don't ask me how it works because I have no clue.
 

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